'Giant grasshopper' in Gozo

A giant grasshopper made of a metal fabrication of stainless steel, copper and brass has been installed on the roundabout at the junction between Ghajnsielem main road and the Gozo heliport. It is the work of London born artist Paolo Giordanella, who now lives and works in Gozo. The structure, which is over four metres is unlike anything else in the Maltese islands. Its form is aimed at being complimentary to the Gozitan landscape. Nature, and its intricacies, features strongly in much of Giordanella's work, spotlighting the overlooked and the ordinary and then elevating them to an extraordinary perspective. "A Grasshopper is a fine example of grace and power combined, making this insect one of the most majestic of all God's creatures and therefore worthy of selection for this piece," the artist said. Giordanella started his artistic training when he was selected to join Sir John Cass School of Art, London at just 15 years of age. By the time he was 16 his enthusiasm and talent had been spotted and he was offered a four-year apprenticeship with a...