UNDP, Kandima Maldives explore art-led approach to biodiversity finance
Dhirun: Art for Biodiversity, a pilot connecting art, tourism and biodiversity finance, has concluded following a closing ceremony in Malé, demonstrating a new approach to generating resources for conservation while supporting Maldivian artists.
The initiative was delivered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Maldives through its Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), with support from the Government of Canada, in collaboration with Kandima Maldives and KULA Art Initiative.
Launched at Kandima Maldives, the exhibition featured artworks by 19 Maldivian artists, inspired by the country’s biodiversity and natural heritage. At its core was a 130% pricing model: artists received 100% of the base price of their work, while an additional 30% premium paid by the buyer was directed towards conservation. Kandima Maldives hosted the exhibition at the resort from 24 July till 24th September 2026 and waived commissions on artwork sales to support the financing model.
A key outcome of the pilot is Kandima Maldives’ decision to extend to host the artworks at the resort until new year to maximise exposure and revenue potential. Retaining the same financing framework will allow future artwork sales to continue generating contributions towards the conservation fund.
The initiative also established a direct link between the tourism sector and local conservation priorities through collaboration with the Kudahuvadhoo Island Council, with funds generated through the model supporting conservation efforts in Dhaalu Valla.
Commenting on the initiative, Dermot Birchall, General Manager of Kandima, said: “At Kandima, supporting local creativity has been part of our DNA since the initial launch of the KULA Art Initiative back in 2017. Dhirun: Art for Biodiversity is a natural extension of our sustainability commitment and support for the wider arts community, bringing together art, conservation and community in a way that reflects both Kandima’s contemporary spirit and the importance of protecting the natural environment that surrounds us.”
Adnan Cheema, UNDP Maldives Resident Representative, highlighted the potential of partnerships to develop new approaches to biodiversity finance.
“Dhirun demonstrates that biodiversity finance can be approached creatively, bringing together the tourism sector, artists, local communities and conservation partners. What began as a pilot has shown how a simple mechanism can connect the value of art and tourism with the protection of nature. The continuation of the model at Kandima is an important step forward.”
The closing ceremony brought together representatives from UNDP, Kandima Maldives, the Kudahuvadhoo Island Council, participating artists and other stakeholders. It also featured an Artist interaction session with visiting international artist Petra Maitz, who presented The Soft Revolution: Crocheting a Coral Reef to Heal Our Oceans, creating an opportunity for artists to exchange ideas on creativity, environmental awareness and action.
The pilot provides a basis for exploring similar partnerships across the Maldivian tourism sector, creating new opportunities for resorts, artists, communities and conservation partners to contribute to protecting the ecosystems and natural heritage that underpin the country’s economy and way of life.
