A revolutionary audiovisual exhibition is bringing awareness to the often misunderstood condition of misophonia through an innovative mixed-media project that combines traditional 2D animation with risograph printing. The 'Misophonia' exhibition, currently on display in Malta, represents the first exhibition of its kind in the country and stands among the very few risograph short films created worldwide.
Misophonia takes its name from a neurobehavioral condition that affects individuals who experience intense discomfort, anger, or the overwhelming urge to escape when exposed to everyday sounds such as chewing, breathing, or sniffling. While most people barely register these common noises, those living with misophonia endure heightened emotional and sensory responses that can significantly impact their daily lives.
Unlike conventional storytelling with a traditional beginning, middle, and end structure, the Misophonia project prioritizes the emotional and sensory journey of someone living with this condition. The exhibition's soundscape serves as the primary narrative driver, allowing audiences to directly experience the same overwhelming sensations and fight-or-flight responses that individuals with misophonia face on a daily basis.
The ambitious project is spearheaded by Michelle Gruppetta, who serves as both Director and Creative Lead. She is supported by a talented team including Violeta Fellay, who provides animation support and acts as Project Coordinator, and Yasmin Kuymizakis, the project's Sound Designer. The exhibition has received backing from Arts Council Malta, sponsorship from TvPaint, and forms an integral part of the Spazju Kreattiv 2025 Programme.
Gruppetta's personal journey inspired the creation of this groundbreaking work. Reflecting on her motivation, she explains: "Eight years ago, I moved from Malta to Denmark, from one of the noisiest countries in Europe to one of the quietest. Suddenly, I had removed myself from a hidden daily pressure I hadn't realized was overwhelming me." During her time in Denmark, Gruppetta was diagnosed with ADHD, which provided insight into her heightened sensitivity to flavors, textures, and particularly sounds.
The director's return to Malta a year ago meant confronting the relentless noise environment once again, including sounds from construction work, traffic, phones, airplanes, fireworks, dogs, and numerous other sources. "Misophonia is my scream against that tide, a way to make people aware of the everyday challenges some of us face, and perhaps inspire a bit more consideration for others," Gruppetta stated.
Through this immersive exhibition, Gruppetta aims to achieve dual objectives: helping viewers with similar experiences feel acknowledged and understood, while encouraging others to reflect on the unintentional impact we have on one another. The project emphasizes how small behavioral changes could contribute to making the world a more comfortable and considerate place for individuals with sound sensitivities.
The Misophonia exhibition is available for public viewing from November 27th through January 11th at the Lejn l-Atriju, located in St James Cavalier in Valletta. This innovative project continues to receive support from Arts Council Malta and sponsorship from TvPaint as part of the comprehensive Spazju Kreattiv 2025 Programme, marking a significant milestone in Malta's contemporary art and awareness initiatives.
