On Saturday evening, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu unveiled a significant MVR 25 million grant scheme to support local artists and artisans. The announcement was made during his visit to the “Unveiling Vision 2024” art expo, where he engaged with the participating artists.
President Muizzu acknowledged the previous lack of recognition for the artistic community in his address. He assured that the grant, facilitated through the Ministry of Youth, would provide artists with the necessary tools and equipment to enhance their creative output.
“We will facilitate an MVR 25 million grant through the Ministry of Youth for the art and creative industry next year,” President Muizzu declared. This grant aims to boost productivity in the creative sector and offer academic and training opportunities for aspiring artists.
Additionally, President Muizzu promised to create more opportunities for artists to sell their work through future expos and art exhibitions. He revealed that the new youth ministry building in Hulhumale’ would include dedicated infrastructure for artists and artisans, providing 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 aim to increase income avenues for artists and artisans globally.
Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed, Local Government Minister Adam Shareef Umar, and other senior government officials accompanied President Muizzu at the expo.
Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed announced the upcoming 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, guided by President Muizzu’s instructions, would enhance productivity and growth within the creative industry.
Minister Waheed highlighted that while many tourists visit the art gallery to view local artworks, the gallery often remains closed when no exhibitions are ongoing. The new National Art Collection will ensure that tourists always have something to explore at the gallery, making it an engaging venue year-round.
“We will open the National Art Collection under President Muizzu’s instructions 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.
Minister Waheed also noted that nine exhibitions had been hosted over 99 days during the current administration’s eight months in office. He emphasized the importance of creating more opportunities for the artistic community, aligning with the needs and aspirations of local artists.
Developing 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 would 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.
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