MVR 25 million to be allocated towards advancing the field of arts from next year's State budget

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu declared last night that a decision has been reached to allocate MVR 25 million from next year's State budget towards advancing craftsmanship and artistry in the Maldives.

The President had visited the art exhibition 'Unveiling Visions 2024' held at the National Art Gallery of Maldives and later addressed artists and visitors of the event, assuring that the government is making several efforts to refine opportunities and open new doors to the advance the field of arts.

Among this, he affirmed that financial aid will be allocated through the State budget from next year onwards for aspiring artists who seek to pursue learning and education.

Additionally, a budget will be allotted for moving forward in various avenues of the field in addition to sourcing materials essential for artists, with these opportunities set to be extended from 2025, said the President.

"Starting from next year, MVR 25 million will be allocated annually from the Youth Ministry's budget as grants to be issued for this industry's expenditures," said the President.

He further ascertained that the Cabinet has also reached an agreement to allocate a land from Hulhumale' for all areas under the purview of Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Art.

Therefore, alongside expanding the space in Male' City dedicated for showcasing artworks, an even larger space will be arranged from Hulhumale' for art exhibitions, said the President. He added that a special area where artists can work will also be established at the premise.

Assuring that the government will assist in changing the work displayed at the exhibition into a progressive career for artists where they make sufficient income, the President also ensured that efforts will be made to display local art pieces in front of international audiences and forums, as well as the country's tourism industry.

Moreover, the President revealed that work is also underway to facilitate the means for artists to sell their work online in accordance with the government's creative economy manifesto, with legal procedures to arrange the development currently being addressed.

"Once this work is completed, the chance to make income by selling artwork to anywhere in the world will be facilitated," said the President.

The seventh edition of 'Unveiling Visions', the largest art exhibition in Maldives organized by Maldivian Artist Community (MAC) was concluded yesterday. Over 200 talented artists had sent in their work to be featured at the gallery and 105 of these artworks were shortlisted and portrayed at the exhibition.

These artworks had displays distinct themes, ranging from historical remnants and local culture and beauty to timeless abstract portrayals.