The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is set to commemorate Maldives National Day with a unique cultural celebration highlighting local artistic talent and marine biodiversity. On August 24, the resort will host a special exhibition featuring 40 watercolor illustrations by celebrated Maldivian artist Shimha Shakeeb, who has served as the resort’s Artist in Residence throughout 2025.
Shimha’s meticulously crafted collection captures the intricate beauty of the Maldives’ marine ecosystem, transforming scientific observation into artistic expression. The illustrations will be compiled into a bespoke Fish Card, designed to help guests identify local marine species while exploring the island’s surrounding lagoon and reef.
The exhibition will take place at Beach Shack, the resort’s oceanfront sunset restaurant, providing an intimate setting for guests to engage directly with the artist. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness live painting demonstrations and interact with Shakeeb, gaining insights into her creative process and the rich marine life of the Maldives.
As the evening progresses, the cultural celebration will expand into a vibrant Maldivian Night event. Guests will be immersed in a sensory experience featuring traditional music, locally inspired cuisine, and a curated market showcasing the work of island artisans and vendors. The event promises to be a profound exploration of Maldivian heritage and creativity against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
The resort’s commitment extends beyond mere celebration, emphasizing its dedication to supporting local artists and preserving cultural identity. By providing a platform for talents like Shimha Shakeeb, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands demonstrates a meaningful approach to cultural engagement that goes beyond typical tourist experiences.
This initiative reflects the resort’s broader mission to create authentic connections between guests and the local community, transforming a luxury vacation into an opportunity for cultural understanding and appreciation.
Guests and art enthusiasts can learn more about this unique cultural experience by visiting ritzcarlton.com/Maldives. For real-time updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses, follow the resort on Instagram and Facebook.