CRAFTED SPLENDOUR:UNVEILING ARTISTIC TRADITION IN THE MALDIVES
Our paradise island home is not just a haven for sun-seekers and beach lovers; it is also a cradle of artistic expression and craftsmanship deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. The people of the Maldives, blessed with an innate artistic flair, have woven a vibrant tapestry of traditional art and craft that beckons travelers to delve into its beauty.
You could say that one in every five Maldivians could turn out to be creative of some sort. If you are to look at our company, almost all our guides and team members are some sort of artist in their own unique way. For instance, our tour leader Shark is a professional painter. he has been displaying his artworks in exhibitions and other art festivals, what more, he even does live art for his guests while he is on tour with them!
Kamey and Archie are also very talented tour leaders, though they never specialized in one particular field (they are more of like Jack all of the trades) they are very good painters and digital artists, as well as craftsmen, creating items such as Maldivian boats (Dhoni) that are made from weaving coconut fond, carving out small souvenirs using wood and other items. If you are to strike up a conversation with them, they will tell you how their creativity and knowledge about craftsmanship is passed down through generations in their families.
At Secret Paradise, we celebrate the creative passions of our team members and take pride in having such brilliant individuals on board. From our perspective, this is a key factor contributing to the vibrant, colorful, and well-rounded nature of our team.
Craftsmanship Etched in Stone and Mats
The artistic prowess of the Maldivian people is evident even in the most unexpected places, such as tombstones. This is one of the oldest forms of artwork that exists in Maldives. A stroll through local cemeteries reveals intricately carved tombstones, a testament to the meticulous artistry passed down through generations. From these stone canvases to the handmade mats, every corner of the Maldives speaks volumes about the artistic bend and skills of its people.
And it’s not just tombs stone, if you closely look at some of the stone and wood carvings that are old historical sites, you will be amazed! The art of calligraphy has clearly found a prominent place in Maldivian culture. Mosques adorned with beautiful calligraphy showcase the fusion of traditional and modern styles. Despite the waning passion for this ancient art form, it continues to exude a unique charm, reflecting the pride the Maldivian people take in preserving their exclusive skills.
Wooden Lacquer Ware: A Symphony of Colors and Patterns
Thulhaadhoo, nestled in Baa Atoll, is the birthplace of a distinctive Maldivian craft – wooden lacquerware, locally known as Liye Laajehun. Craftsmen hollow out and carve wooden pieces into exquisite boxes and artefacts, which are then lacquered in resins of black, yellow, and red. Vibrant floral motifs and patterns adorn these creations, adding a touch of Maldivian elegance to every piece.
This is a good conversation to have with Shaffaf, our Airport Ambassador If you ever happen to meet with him. His family is very well known for lacquerwork. He will tell you just how the paint used in this craft was created using limestone in the early days. He will also point you towards how to spot a fake from an authentic lacquerware just by looking!
While boat building is a crucial part of the Maldivian occupation, it’s also a revered handicraft. The traditional ‘dhonis,’ originally crafted from coconut wood, now incorporate imported hardwood. Boat making, an art in itself, demands expertise to withstand the ocean’s relentless waves.
Mat Making: Woven Tales of Tradition
Mat making, predominantly a women-driven craft, flourishes in Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Maldivian mats, renowned globally, are not just decorative items but also a source of livelihood for the locals. Reed, dried under the tropical sun, is dyed in vibrant colours before being skillfully woven into mats by handloom weavers. These handcrafted mats, a visual delight for tourists, serve as a cultural symbol and a source of income for the local communities.
Maldivian Craftsmanship Across Atolls: Dhaalu and Thaa Atolls
Venturing further into the Maldives reveals the unique handicrafts of Dhaalu and Thaa Atolls. Rin’budhoo in Dhaalu Atoll is celebrated for its skilled goldsmiths, crafting intricate pieces that reflect the region’s rich heritage. Meanwhile, Hulhudeli in the same Atoll is renowned for its silversmiths, producing exquisite silver jewelry that captures the essence of Maldivian artistry.
Thaa Atoll, with its own distinct craft traditions, contributes to the Maldivian artistic mosaic. Here, traditional items like Fangi, Kunaa, and Saanthi hold a special place in the local heritage. The atoll showcases its unique interpretation of Maldivian craftsmanship, adding diverse hues to the overall canvas of the country’s art and culture.
Our tour leader, Kamey, recently traveled to Rinbudhoo to assist CNN Travel and Visit Maldives in crafting an article that highlights the cultural richness of local islands in Thaa and Dhaalu Atoll. Hailing from Dhaalu Atoll, Kamey possesses extensive knowledge about the intricate artisanal jewelry created by skilled silver and goldsmiths in his home atoll. He is also well-versed in the ornate lacquerware tradition passed down through generations in Thaa Atoll, as well as the craftsmanship behind boats, vibrant street art, and the delectable culinary offerings curated by local chefs. You can check out the article here.
Challenges to Tradition : Preserving Maldives Heritage in the Face of Change
However, the journey of Maldivian craftsmanship has encountered challenges. Once renowned for its excellence across the region, the sector has faded into obscurity due to the rapid wave of industrialization and the influx of cheap, foreign-produced handicrafts. Factors such as high transportation costs, the island state’s fragmented geography, limited raw materials, and a workforce absorbed by the booming tourism and construction industry have contributed to this decline.
Despite these challenges, certain atolls remain strongholds of specific crafts. Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll continues to produce fine hand-woven mats, while Thulaadhoo in Baa Atoll is celebrated for its intricate lacquer work. Rin’budhoo in Dhaalu Atoll boasts skilled goldsmiths, and Hulhudeli in the same Atoll is renowned for its silversmiths.
A recent survey conducted through telephone interviews with Island Chiefs in the atolls revealed a significant reduction in the number of craft items produced. However, a core list of 40 items, ranging from Fangi and Kunaa to traditional hooks and coconut shell jewelry, still showcases the resilience of Maldivian craftsmanship.
There are also individual entrepreneurs such as Aishath Shiran who makes not only kasabu (traditional dresses) – but creates jewelry using the same skills and methods and adding a modern twist.
Embracing Tradition Responsibly: A Call to Experience and Preserve
As we witness the ebb and flow of tradition, responsible tourism takes our central focus. The Maldives, with its fragile ecosystem, beckons visitors to not only enjoy its natural wonders but also to engage with and support its traditional crafts. Purchasing handcrafted items not only serves as a beautiful souvenir but also contributes to the preservation of this cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the traditional art and craft of the Maldives paint a vivid picture of a culture deeply rooted in creativity and skill. While challenges have cast shadows on this heritage, the spirit of craftsmanship endures in the hands of dedicated artisans across the atolls. As you consider your next travel destination, let the Maldives beckon you not just for its sun-kissed beaches but for a journey into the heart of a nation where art and tradition converge. Embrace the culture, support local artisans, and become a part of the effort to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for Maldivian craftsmanship. Your journey awaits, promising not just a vacation but an immersion into the living artistry of the Maldives.
Join us to explore the culture and crafts of Dhaalu and Thaa Atoll on our Cultural Trails and Ocean Tales Tour.
