From the turquoise lagoons and white-sand beaches of the Maldives comes a more cultural representation of the islands: The Shape of Return.
Presented by the Oaga Art Resort in the Maldives, this exhibition features 15 Maldivian artists whose works explore memory, identity and cultural heritage. It is on display at Oevaali Art Gallery, a Maldivian fine art gallery in Kampung Glam that showcases the works of both established and emerging Maldivian artists.
“I wanted to choose artists I know who are very established and good at their work”, said art curator Ms Nadee Rachey.
The pieces are part of Maldives: A Simple Story, an exhibition currently on display at the Oaga resort, in which each villa hosts a solo exhibition by a local artist.
Ms Hidhana Latheef’s art piece Libaas I uses traditional kasabu weaving, a Maldivian braiding and lacing technique that adorns the necklines of Dhivehi Libaas dresses. A kasabu weaving kit is placed in the villa housing her exhibition, where visitors can explore the craft themselves.
Silent Voyager by Mr Mohamed Hisan blends oceanic imagery with traditional Maldivian stone-carving patterns. “This is a dying tradition. People like him are trying to revive it”, Ms Nadee, 40, said.
While some works explore tradition, others celebrate the quiet beauty of island life, like Flow, a psychedelic acrylic-on-canvas artwork by Ms Aima Musthafa. To Ms Nadee, the art represents Maldivians’ ability to enjoy simple pleasures. “I think that is what Maldivians are. I hope to think we are an island people and we find joy in the little things”, she said.
“I want people to see that the Maldives is not just the pristine beaches, but see our culture, heritage and experience our stories. I want them to be so intrigued with every story and see the Maldives for themselves,” she added.
Running from June 21 to July 5, 2026, the exhibition will be open daily from 10.30am to 8pm. Admission is free.
