Project Summary

These digital artworks were created for PALEOSIM, a climate impacts project led by Dr James Ciarlo’ for the University of Malta. Based on the paleoclimate simulations by Dr. Ciarlo, they reimagine Malta’s landscapes in two very different moments: 21,000 years ago during the Ice Age, when a land bridge once connected Malta to Sicily, and under future global warming scenarios.

The three scenes — Gebel Ciantar, Xrobb l-Għagin, and Torri l-Aħmar — are artistic interpretations based on scientific data, blending research with illustration to create visuals that appeal to both adults and children. While rooted in Dr. Ciarlo’s simulations, the works are rendered in my own illustrative style, offering an accessible and imaginative way to picture how our islands once looked — and how they may change again.

From the Gebel Ciantar illustrations, we get a glimpse of a Malta few could imagine — one where Filfa was still part of the mainland, and the Gozo Channel was a stretch of land rather than sea in the view from the Red Tower, merging the islands into a larger, connected landmass. These visualisations bring to life ancient coastlines and vanished connections, offering a rare window into a forgotten landscape.

Press release: Newspoint