The Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery at the City Hall will be closing its doors from Monday 19th May to Tuesday 3rd June in preparation for its 10th Anniversary celebrations. Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, is looking forward to the re-opening and is planning various events to celebrate the occasion. 

As part of the anniversary, works by Christian Hook will feature in the Gallery. This will make the Freeman of the City the 7th artist to have works displayed at Gibraltar’s National Gallery, alongside Mario Finlayson, Gustavo Bacarisas, Elio Cruz, Jacobo Azagury, Rudesindo Mannia and Leni Mifsud.

Born in Gibraltar in 1971, Christian Hook is known for his innovative portraiture and style. His career gained recognition in 2014 when he won Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year. Hook blends traditional techniques with modern abstraction, creating works that capture movement and emotion. He has painted notable figures, including Queen Elizabeth II and Sir Richard Branson. In 2017, he received the Freedom of the City of Gibraltar. Hook continues to push artistic boundaries, capturing his subjects in a way that redefines contemporary portraiture, and is represented by Clarendon Fine Art.

The Gallery’s anniversary will also see a new curation of works, to include the latest purchases and additions to the Government’s art collection.

At the centre of town, the Gallery aims to continue to attract visitors and locals alike to enjoy this unique collection of work which showcase Gibraltar’s history and heritage. There will be enhancements and improvements all round to include more resources for young people, new QR codes with information on the artworks, and changes to the Gift Shop. Other events are planned around the occasion, including fireside chats focusing on the work of Gustavo Bacarisas and Mario Finlayson. A family fun day is also planned to engage the younger audiences during the summer.

GCS apologises for any inconvenience caused during the works but promises a fresh and interactive experience upon completion.

For more information, please email development@culture.gov.gi