The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has unveiled the 2025 edition of its annual art competition and exhibition, Frame by MATATO, aiming to spotlight Maldivian creativity and culture while intertwining art with the nation’s thriving tourism industry.
This year’s theme, “The Maldivian Mystic,” marks a groundbreaking shift by delving into local folklore and legends through diverse artistic expressions. Set to run from December 10, 2024, to January 20, 2025, the competition invites artists across four age categories to submit works ranging from drawings and paintings to 3D models, installations, and sculptures.
A Platform for Emerging Talent
Entries will be judged by a distinguished panel comprising local and international art experts. From these submissions, 10 finalists from each age category will be selected to feature in the grand Art Exhibition at the National Art Gallery, slated for the first week of February 2025. For the first time in the event’s history, winners will be chosen via public voting, fostering deeper engagement between the audience and the artists.
Wide-Ranging Institutional Support
Frame by MATATO 2025 is backed by several key organizations, reflecting its importance in elevating Maldivian art on a global scale. Endorsing partners include:
- Ministry of Tourism
- Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Art
- Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage
- Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC)
- National Centre for the Arts (NCA)
- Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI)
- Maldivian Artist Community (MAC)
- National Hotels and Guesthouses Association of Maldives (NHGAM)
Through this collaboration, the event aims to celebrate Maldivian heritage while providing a platform for artists to share their visions of the nation’s folklore with a broader audience.
How to Participate
Artists can visit www.framebymatato.com for detailed guidelines and to submit their entries.
MATATO, a non-governmental organization committed to the development of the Maldivian tourism sector for nearly two decades, continues to empower and unite local communities through initiatives like Frame by MATATO. This art competition stands as a testament to their dedication to merging culture, creativity, and tourism.
