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From Hamburg atelier to island retreat: Paul Schrader invites Guests of Patina Maldives
When creative minds come together, extraordinary things happen. This belief is at the core of the Artist in Residence program at the design resort Patina Maldives in the North Malé Atoll — a platform that welcomes both internationally renowned artists and emerging talents from the art world. From April 3 to 16, 2025, German artist Paul Schrader will take part in this unique initiative, inviting guests on an immersive artistic journey.
Known for his large-scale works characterized by bold colors and spatial depth, Paul Schrader has garnered a growing global following. Formerly a lawyer, he discovered painting as a new medium for his creative expression. His artistic journey began in Hamburg, where he quickly gained recognition on both national and international stages. With exhibitions in prestigious galleries from Berlin to New York, his works captivate the dynamic interplay of spatial dimensions and vibrant hues.
Often drawing inspiration from nature’s infinite palette, Schrader focuses on how colors and forms influence emotions and atmosphere. His exhibition “Light in Paradise”, hosted at the Fari Art Atelier the gallery space of Patina Maldives — examines the transient moods and changing light of sunrise and sunset. His paintings reflect these moments with soft pastel tones, shimmering turquoise waters and a tranquil ambiance. However, Schrader’s residency is more than an exhibition, it’s an invitation for guests to step into his creative world. A highlight of his stay will be the “Sip and Paint” workshops at the Stargazing Pier, where guests can craft their own interpretations of the tropical sunset. Guided by the artist’s insights and techniques, these sessions promise to be both inspiring and immersive.
The Artist in Residence program is part of a broader artistic vision that seamlessly blends art with nature. In addition to Schrader’s exhibition, Patina Maldives is home to a range of captivating installations, including the “Skyspace” by world-renowned light artist James Turrell — an experiential space that interacts with light and perception throughout the day. With its commitment to fostering creativity and artistic dialogue, Patina Maldives continues to establish itself as a destination where art and nature intertwine, offering guests a truly transformative experience.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been nominated in the Resorts category for the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (UK) and the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (US), marking a further development in the resort’s international recognition.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are based on traveller feedback and are considered a key benchmark within the global travel industry. The dual nomination reflects the resort’s presence across international markets and its engagement with guests from different regions.
The nomination follows a series of recognitions for the resort. In 2025, Kuda Villingili was ranked among the Top 5 Overseas Leisure Resorts Worldwide in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards, placing fifth globally. It was also listed among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 (US). The resort was similarly recognised in the 2024 edition of the awards.
Located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives offers 75 villas and residences, each with private pools and views of the surrounding ocean.
The resort features eight restaurants and three bars, including Japanese-Peruvian dining at Mar-Umi and Teppanyaki by Mar-Umi. Other dining options include Asian cuisine at East and grill offerings at Fire. Additional facilities include a cigar lounge, a large swimming pool, a spa with overwater treatment villas, and a range of wellness and recreational activities such as yoga, sound therapy and surfing.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, stated that the nominations reflect feedback from guests across international markets and noted the importance of maintaining consistent service standards.
Voting for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is open until 30 June 2026, with results scheduled to be announced in November 2026.
Baros Maldives is set to host a curated Earth Day experience titled Earth Day in Bloom on 22 April 2026, offering guests an evening programme centred on sustainability, nature and locally sourced ingredients.
The event will begin at 6:30pm at the resort’s Chef’s Garden, where guests will be welcomed with a Garden Spritz before taking part in a guided tour of the garden. The tour will introduce participants to local herbs and island-grown produce cultivated on the property.
As part of the programme, guests will be invited to plant their own herb, contributing to the garden while engaging in an activity aligned with environmental awareness. The experience will continue with a garden dinner starting at 7pm, featuring a menu designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the island.
An optional pairing of organic wines will also be available, providing an additional element to the dining experience.
The event is priced at USD 175 per person, excluding applicable service charge and taxes. Reservations can be made through the resort’s butler service.
The initiative reflects Baros Maldives’ focus on sustainability-led guest experiences, integrating environmental awareness with culinary offerings and on-island activities.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives has been recognised as a Quality Winner at the TUI Global Hotel Awards 2026, an accolade based on guest feedback from travellers worldwide. The recognition reflects the resort’s delivery of guest experiences shaped by service standards, facilities and alignment with evolving traveller preferences.
Located in North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a range of accommodation options, with more than 140 units including overwater suites, beach bungalows and duplex garden bungalows. The resort is designed to accommodate couples, families and groups.
The resort features seven dining venues offering a mix of international and local cuisine. Tex Mex serves Mexican and Spanish-inspired dishes, while Dalchini offers an Indian à la carte menu available for lunch and dinner. Raalhu Bar provides a setting for evening refreshments, with views of the sunset.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is also known for Pasta Point, a surf break recognised for its left-hand waves. The resort attracts surfers from international markets who travel to access the location. Surf operations at Pasta Point are managed by Atoll Adventures, with bookings handled through Atoll Travel to ensure a structured approach to surf access.
The TUI Global Hotel Awards are determined by guest reviews, making the recognition an indicator of guest satisfaction. The resort’s inclusion as a Quality Winner reflects its performance in meeting guest expectations within the Maldives tourism sector.
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