This two-part event showcases Matt Stroud’s journey into Maltese folktales during his year-long sabbatical project Tori Tombi, supported by Arts Council Malta. Part one (14:00–14:40) features a talk where Matt shares his in-depth research, discoveries, and the artistic development of folktale stories and characters. Part two (14:50–15:30) is a workshop, limited to 15 participants, in which Matt walks through his full character design process. Attendees of the workshop part are invited to sketch along with the character design process and receive feedback. For this reason, please bring a sketchbook and drawing utensils or drawing tablet.

Attendees are welcome to join either one part or both, depending on their interest. Participation is free, but pre-registration is required.

About the Illustrator

Matt Stroud is a Maltese illustrator and animator with a focus on narrative based art, as well as entertainment and education aimed at children. With 10 years of experience in the industry Matt has illustrated over 30 children’s books for various local publishers and won 4 Terramaxka National Book Prizes in the process. Matt has applied his storytelling and animation skills for various purposes over the years. He has created 12 preschool animations for the National Literacy Agency, a full animated show to accompany classical music for a Malta Philharmonic Orchestra concert as well as creating promotional illustrations and animations for various organizations and events.