What inspired you to begin your artistic journey back in 2006?
In 2006 I was looking for a place where I could study painting. I started attending art lessons at the Jason Lu Studio. He taught me what it means to be disciplined and dedicated to your craft. I was always drawn towards the visual arts but it was after completing my Masters I knew it was time to devote myself to it. I have continued my love of painting one way or another since that time.
How did the idea of transforming your paintings into wearable art come about?
It came about because I was not truly satisfied with what I was wearing. I felt there was something missing and knew I could create something myself that I would like to wear. We often associate art with paintings on the wall or what we see in the museums. I felt that my artwork could be more than that, that it could be something to be enjoyed every day. It originally started with printing some silk scarves with my artwork and then I moved onto jewellery naturally.
Can you describe the creative process behind your jewellery pieces?
I look at every piece of jewellery that I have created as a miniature painting to adorn the person wearing it and have a little piece of me. It is the same process as creating a painting. I am very much affected by my mood and the time of the year. So, if it’s summer I am drawn to the beautiful turquoise colours of the sea, in the autumn to the beautiful golden and bronze hues that we associate with that season. I will know that a piece of jewellery is ready when I find it hard to part with it. Each piece is unique and sometimes an exploration not always knowing how it will exactly turn out. That is the element that I enjoy the most, having some control but the same time having the freedom to let it go where it may.
What does your studio mean to you as an artist?
My studio is the place where my ideas flourish. I surround myself with objects that are sentimental to me. It is the space where my ideas flow.
How do you ensure each piece remains unique and personal?
Each work is an expression in time so it reflects that particular moment. So what I create is very personal because it is a reflection of what I am feeling. I let what I am feeling lead my work. If you are led by the moment the flow of the moment will guide you to what your next piece should look like. I love the unexpected twists that come out and the colour combinations expressed in each piece. One piece leads onto another just as would a series of paintings.
What role does Malta play in your artistic identity?
Malta can be an inspiring place to create from its beautiful sparkling sea and its rugged landscapes. I do feel that they have affected what I find artistically pleasing. Also I find the traditional architecture to be uplifting and visually pleasing to the eye. So I think these elements of Malta and Gozo have played a role in forming my artistic identity.
How has your involvement with l-artigjana influenced your work or community connections?
L-artigjana is a community of female artisans who run a shop situated in Rabat, Malta. It has helped me to continue to explore my craft. Without this group I don’t think I would have continued to follow this path.
Creating art can be very isolating, you are mostly alone in your studio. This is not my full time profession so I create in the odd hours outside of my work and family life. I have often felt that I cannot manage to juggle it all. These women have encouraged me to continue and have given me moral support. As women, especially mothers, there are often more obstacles to create work as we have more responsibilities and creating art can often be the last thing on our list of priorities. But when I step into the shop and see the wealth of talent and dedication shown by these ladies it gives me the push to continue being a part of this community.
What message do you hope people take away when they wear your art?
I hope they feel that art can be accessible to the public and that you do not need to be a connoisseur to own a piece of art. You can enjoy little things to make life uplifting be it a piece of jewellery or something special for your home. Everyday objects can be unique and you don’t have to turn to the mass produced and follow trends. I think that we have become so accustomed to buying online and being on autopilot that sometimes we forget the joy of objects created with thought and integrity.
Are there any materials or techniques you particularly enjoy working with?
I enjoy working with metallic paint. I love seeing the reflected light and glitter in metallic paints. I love to add sparkle so that they shine when worn.
What’s next for you in your artistic journey?
Although at the moment I have primarily focused on jewellery. I do have an exhibition of paintings planned in early 2026 at the Wignacourt Museum, Rabat, Malta. I haven’t completely stopped painting on canvas. It is my first love and it is what drew me to the visual arts in the first place. It is great fun exploring different mediums of expressions. I think that as long as my hands are at work and my mind is creating I am at peace.”
As she prepares for her upcoming exhibition at the Wignacourt Museum in 2026, Charlene remains rooted in the joy of creating – whether painting, crafting, or simply letting colour lead the way. Her work reminds us that art need not be confined to walls or galleries; it can live with us, glimmering in the small moments, worn close to the heart.
