(Singapore, 16 June 2026) Oaga Art Resort, the Maldives' only art resort, will present The Shape of Return, a contemporary art exhibition featuring the works of 15 Maldivian artists, in Singapore at Oevaali Art Gallery, an intimate gallery of Maldivian Fine Art. 

Running from 21 June to 5 July, the exhibition invites visitors to discover the richness of Maldivian creativity through a collection of works that explore themes of memory, identity, belonging and cultural heritage. 

Admission is free and the exhibition will be open daily from 10:30 to 20:00. Originally conceived as individual villa installations at Oaga Art Resort, the artworks were part of Maldives: A Simple Story, a theme that transformed 15 guest villas into personal narratives inspired by Maldivian life and culture. In The Shape of Return, these works are brought together for the first time in a collective exhibition, creating a shared visual archive of contemporary Maldivian expression. 

Bringing together fifteen artists from diverse creative disciplines, the exhibition reflects the evolving narratives of Maldivian creators. Through painting, mixed media, illustrations and visual storytelling, the artists explore the connections between people, place and memory while offering audiences a deeper understanding of the cultural narratives that shape the Maldives beyond its postcard-perfect beaches. 

"Art is often the most authentic way to experience a place. At Oaga, we connect you to the Maldives through creative expressions; connecting you to different narratives; perspectives, cultures and most importantly, the people telling these stories. This exhibition brings to Singapore a glimpse of the extended Maldives story that spans across our island - it is a window to our veyoge gallery villas; that carries these simple, yet heartfelt stories." said Nawaila Nashid, Director of Brand Experience of Oaga Art Resort. 

Featured Maldivian artists include Alwan Ibrahim, Hawwa Lahfa, Hidhana Latheef, Zifla Ibrahim, Zuha Bari, Hassan Niyaz, Aishath Shuaila, Mariyam Halym, Baburu Akuru x Jille, Dhyna Shaheem, Emaz Shakoor, Aminath Fathina, Afzal Shaafiu (Afu), Mohamed Hisan and Aima Musthafa. 

The exhibition is presented by Oevaali Art Gallery, Singapore in collaboration with Suvāsthi by Oaga, the resort's creative platform that connects visitors with local artists, cultural practitioners and storytellers. The initiative reflects Oaga's philosophy of "Fannuverin Fathururuveinnah" – from artists to tourists – creating meaningful cultural exchanges through art, performance and immersive experiences. 

Located in North Malé Atoll, Oaga Art Resort is a homegrown Maldivian hospitality brand that has redefined the traditional island resort experience by integrating art, culture and storytelling into every aspect of the guest journey. The resort is home to one of the Maldives' largest collections of local art and notably has over 300 hand painted murals across the island; including mural pools. Oaga serves as a vibrant platform for contemporary creative expression and cultural exchange.

Exhibition Details 

Date: 21 June to 5 July 2026

Time: 10:30 to 20:00 

Venue: Oevaali Art Gallery 10 Bussorah Street, Singapore199488

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