Maldivian Traditional Stone-carving Course

The Traditional Stone-carving Course was an initiative of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) and Gadheemee Collection, in association with the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage.

The purpose of this course was to train new craftsmen and craftswomen in the art of Maldivian traditional stone-carving (locally known as ‘’galuvadaann’’). 

Research suggested that Maldivian traditional stone carving was a dying art with very few traditional stonemasons/carvers operating in Maldives. Hence, MATI felt that this was a highly valuable cultural asset in need of revival.

The preservation and promotion of Maldivian Culture is a key area of focus for MATI. Furthermore, MATI also believes that the Tourism Industry is a viable platform that can assist in the revival and promotion of traditional arts and crafts by providing artisans and craftsmen a platform to showcase their products and services and earn a living out of practicing traditional arts and crafts.

The course was the first of its kind, which ran for a total of 3 months starting from the 20th of June 2019 till the 30th of September 2019.