The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has announced the launch of the Frame by MATATO art competition, an annual event aimed at celebrating Maldivian creativity and highlighting the nation’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of tourism.

Open to artists of all ages, the competition invites submissions in diverse mediums, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, 3D models, and installations. The submission period runs from December 10, 2024, to January 20, 2025.

This year’s theme, “The Maldivian Mystic,” focuses on Maldivian folklore, offering a unique opportunity for artists to explore and portray the nation’s mythological and cultural narratives. The competition will culminate in a grand exhibition at the National Art Gallery on February 8, 2025, marking the first-ever exhibition in the Maldives dedicated to folklore-inspired art.

A panel of distinguished judges, featuring both local and international experts, will review the entries. For the first time, winners will be selected through public voting, allowing attendees to actively participate in recognizing the best works.

Key partners for this initiative include the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, and the National Centre for the Arts.

MATATO, a non-profit organisation established in 2006, has been a cornerstone in developing the Maldivian tourism sector. This competition aligns with its mission to promote tourism by integrating art and cultural heritage.

Interested participants can visit the official Frame by MATATO website for submission guidelines and additional information.