Govt to open National Art Collection for tourists

Minister of Youth Ibrahim Waheed on Saturday has said a National Art Collection specially curated to attract tourists will exhibit soon.

The minister, while speaking during his visit to ‘Unveiling Vision 2024’ art expo, said the new collection will be opened under the instruction of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, adding that the Maldives head of state has advised to expand productivity and growth of the creative industry.

Youth Minister said that though several tourists visit the art gallery to view the works of local artists, the gallery is closed unless an active exhibition is ongoing.

Minister Waheed, after announcing the plan to unveil a National Art Collection Soon, said this collection would ensure tourists will have something to explore when they visit the art gallery even in the event of no ongoing exhibitions.

“We will open the national art collection under the instructions of President Muizzu very soon. This would ensure that even if there are no ongoing exhibitions on any given day, or month, the tourists will have something to explore when they visit. The gallery will be an eventful avenue after that,” the minister said.

The minister also said a total of nine exhibitions across 99 days have been hosted during the eight months and three days since the current administration took charge.

While speaking at the art expo, Minister Waheed emphasized the importance of creating more opportunities for the artistic or creative industry, which he promised will proceed according to the needs and aspirations of local artists.

Development of an international-standard art school is among the top objectives of the current administration, which it aims to boost a productive economy and facilitate income for artists and creative professionals. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has already opened expression of interest window for interested parties to develop the school.

Minister Waheed further promised the school will be developed before the current governmental term ends. He said the work is already underway with experts to develop the art school’s outline.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu visited the ‘Unveiling Vision 2024’ art expo on Saturday evening, where he promised the government’s plan to introduce an MVR 25 million grant scheme for local artists and artisans.

A total of 105 local artists and creative professionals are exhibiting their work at the expo.