Maldives to compile national registry of artists

National Centre for the Arts (NCA) has introduced rules to compile a registry of performing and visual artists in the Maldives.

The registry aims to identify individuals and sectors within the arts, provide support for development, and help create a favorable environment for artistic growth.

NCA will also use the data to conduct research and inform policy-making.

Under the rules, performing arts include music, dance, theatre, sports, Boduberu and Bandiyaa Jehun, while visual arts cover painting, drawing, calligraphy, sculpture, photography and digital art.

Artists wishing to register must meet the application requirements, including parental consent for those under 18. Registrations submitted through the NCA website will receive a certificate.

The registry will be updated annually; failure to update will render it inactive. NCA has said that all personal information of artists on the registry will be kept confidential.