On Saturday evening, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced a substantial MVR 25 million grant scheme aimed at supporting local artists and artisans. The announcement was made during his visit to the “Unveiling Vision 2024” art expo, where he engaged with exhibiting artists.
In his address at the expo, President Muizzu acknowledged that the artistic community has not previously received the recognition it deserves. He assured that the grant scheme, facilitated through the Ministry of Youth, will provide artists with the necessary tools and equipment to produce their creative works.
“We will facilitate an MVR 25 million grant through the Ministry of Youth for the art and creative industry next year,” President Muizzu declared. The grant is designed not only to boost productivity in the creative industry but also to offer academic and training opportunities for aspiring artists.
President Muizzu also promised to enhance opportunities for artists to sell their work through prospective expos and art exhibitions. He revealed that the planned new youth ministry building in Hulhumale’ will include dedicated infrastructure for artists and artisans, promising both domestic and international exposure opportunities.
“Our manifesto includes providing the opportunity to market and sell products created from intellectual, material, and creative talents on an international digital platform,” Muizzu stated. These initiatives are aimed at increasing income avenues for artists and artisans globally.
Accompanying President Muizzu at the expo were Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed, Local Government Minister Adam Shareef Umar, and other senior government officials.
Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed announced the forthcoming establishment of a National Art Collection specifically curated to attract tourists. Speaking at the “Unveiling Vision 2024” art expo, Minister Waheed explained that the collection will be opened under the guidance of President Muizzu, who has instructed an expansion of productivity and growth within the creative industry.
Minister Waheed highlighted that while many tourists visit the art gallery to view local artworks, the gallery remains closed when no exhibitions are ongoing. The new National Art Collection will ensure that tourists have something to explore at the gallery at all times, making it an engaging venue regardless of scheduled exhibitions.
“We will open the National Art Collection under the instructions of President Muizzu very soon. This will ensure that even if there are no ongoing exhibitions, tourists will have something to explore when they visit. The gallery will become an eventful avenue,” the minister said.
During his address, Minister Waheed also noted that nine exhibitions had been hosted over 99 days during the current administration’s eight months in office. He emphasised the importance of creating more opportunities for the artistic community, aligning with the needs and aspirations of local artists.
The development of an international-standard art school remains a top objective for the current administration, aimed at fostering a productive economy and providing income opportunities for artists and creative professionals. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has already opened an expression of interest window for parties interested in developing the school. Minister Waheed assured that the school will be completed within the current governmental term and that work is already underway with experts to develop its outline.
The “Unveiling Vision 2024” art expo, attended by President Muizzu, features 105 local artists and creative professionals exhibiting their work, highlighting the vibrant and diverse artistic talent present in the Maldives.
