Mario Finlayson Fireside Chat Marks a Cultural Milestone

Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, is proud to reflect on the success of a recent fireside chat held in honour of Mario Finlayson—one of Gibraltar’s most influential living artists. The event, chaired by renowned journalist and broadcaster Alice Mascarenhas, took place on Thursday 5th June at the City Hall as part of the 10th Anniversary celebrations of the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery.

Titled The Legacy of Mario Finlayson, the evening offered an intimate and inspiring insight into the life, work, and ongoing influence of the artist whose name has become synonymous with Gibraltarian visual culture. Attendees were treated to a heartfelt conversation that explored Mario’s long-standing dedication to the arts, his vision for the gallery, and his belief in the power of local artistic expression.

The event also shone a spotlight on his recently published book, A Lifetime in Art, which captures key moments in Finlayson’s personal and professional journey. The publication is a poignant reflection of his creative life and a valuable addition to Gibraltar’s growing library of cultural literature.

The fireside chat forms part of a wider cultural programme leading up to this year’s Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival, taking place in November. It continues the Festival’s tradition of honouring Gibraltarian voices, offering platforms to those whose stories and contributions have shaped our community and creative identity.

For more information, please contact the Development Unit at: development@culture.gov.gi.