This Maldives National Day, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands celebrates the richness of local culture through the theme of music, locally inspired cuisine, and pride. As part of the occasion, the resort will host a special exhibition on August 24 featuring the work of celebrated Maldivian watercolor artist Shimha Shakeeb, who has served as the resort’s Artist in House throughout 2025.

Shimha’s latest project — a collection of 40 hand-painted fish illustrations — captures the beauty of the Maldives’ marine biodiversity in exquisite detail. These artworks will form the basis of a bespoke Fish Card, created as an elegant guide for guests to identify local species while exploring the island’s surrounding lagoon and reef.

The exhibition will be held at Beach Shack, the resort’s oceanfront sunset restaurant, offering a relaxed and scenic setting in which guests can meet Shimha, engage in conversation, and observe her creative process during live painting demonstrations. Her work brings the spirit of Maldivian creativity to life — from the fish card illustrations to the cultural touches woven throughout the resort.

The evening will continue with a vibrant Maldivian Night celebration, featuring traditional music, locally inspired cuisine and a curated market of island artisans and vendors. Set against the luxurious backdrop of the Indian Ocean, this cultural gathering invites guests to connect with the authentic soul of the Maldives.

At The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, the resort takes pride in supporting and empowering female artists like Shimha, who embody the heart of its vibrant island community. This partnership reflects the resort’s ongoing dedication to preserving local heritage, uplifting creative talent and creating meaningful connections through art.

For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives and for real-time updates follow the resort on Instagram and Facebook.