Manuel Busuttil: Ta’ Pizzar
Manuel Busuttil: Mastering the Classic Skill of Upholstery.
In a quiet workshop filled with the scent of fabric and the hum of classic rock, Manuel Busuttil carries on a lifelong passion that began when he was just 14 years old. Now at 70, he remains dedicated to the art of upholstery, a craft he chose for himself despite coming from a family of farmers. His journey has been one of skill, perseverance, and an unwavering love for his trade.
Manuel Busuttil, Upholsterer
A Lifetime of Craftsmanship
Born into a home still under construction, Manuel's life has always been intertwined with hands-on work. He found his calling early, working with an upholsterer after school at the age of 14 to earn some money. By the time he was 15, he had moved on to a company where he honed his skills before eventually setting out on his own. Unlike many, Manuel never needed advertisements, his work spoke for itself. Clients from decades past still reach out, proof of the trust and reputation he has built over the years.
Manuel’s Shop
Passion Over Tradition
Coming from a family deeply rooted in farming, Manuel took a different path. While others expected him to follow in their footsteps, he chose upholstery out of pure passion. He never had an interest in farming, and instead, dedicated himself entirely to his craft. His belief in doing what one loves in life has kept him motivated and fulfilled throughout the years.
Close-Up of Manuel doing his Craft
The Changing Times of Upholstery
Over the years, Manuel has witnessed significant changes in the industry. Once, detailed and intricate upholstery work was in high demand, but today, clients prefer modern and minimalist designs. Adapting to these trends, Manuel now focuses on simpler, sleeker styles, which are both easier to produce and more marketable in today’s world.
Despite the decline in demand, his workshop remains a place of activity. Long-time clients still seek his expertise, and passersby often drop in for a conversation or to offer a helping hand. His workshop isn't just a workplace, it is a hub of connection and history.
Manuel’s Reliable Singer
A Life Well-Lived
Beyond his trade, Manuel is a man of deep awareness. A music lover, he enjoys the sounds of Jimi Hendrix while working, and he keeps a unique collection of calendars from the Marsa shop where he has purchased his materials since 2002. His approach to life and work is simple yet profound: stay dedicated, follow your passion, and let quality craftsmanship speak for itself.
Manuel’s Toolshed at the Back
One of Manuel’s Finished Chairs
Even after decades in the challenging world of design and craftsmanship, Manuel’s remarkable story stands as a powerful testament to the immense value of choosing one’s own unique path and steadfastly sticking to it, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way. His skilled hands have shaped not only exquisite furniture pieces but also a lasting legacy imbued with the principles of hard work, unwavering dedication, and timeless craftsmanship that transcends generations.
