Republic of Mauritius- International Art Fair, a premiere in Mauritius to promote different forms of artworks

This statement was made, yesterday, by the Head of Film and Creative Industries at the Economic Development Board (EDB), Mr Nanda Narrainen, during a press conference held at the Sofitel Mauritius L’Impérial Resort & Spa in Flic-en-Flac, and organised by the EDB and Zee Arts.

He indicated that the Fair has as main objective to position Mauritius as an art destination and contender for artistically and culturally vibrant countries as well as to introduce original artwork from artists. Furthermore, he underlined that from a business and investment perspective, the EDB has developed a three-fold strategy to foster the cultural ecosystem. The strategy, he said, includes creating a unique platform for deepened linkages between international artists and local artists, promoting art as an asset class for investment and formulating effective strategies to address the infrastructure gap in terms of auction sales and art museums in Mauritius.

For her part, artist activist and founder of ZeeArts, Ms Zaahirah Muthy, pointed out that the Fair is an annual rendezvous for artists from all over the world to gather, network, and engage in artistic dialogue and cultural exchange. She also gave an overview of the different programmes and activities that will be held during the four-day event adding that a Gala Award Night will be organised to commemorate the 1^st annual Mauritius International Art Fair.

The Mauritius International Arts Fair (MIAF)

The MIAF unites artists from around the world predominantly from neighbouring islands such as Rodrigues, Reunion, Madagascar, Seychelles as well from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, America, and Oceania. During the Fair, visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase an impressive range of art forms, including paintings, sculpture, photography, installation, visual, as well as sound media and assemblage.

The MIAF will feature a carefully curated selection of emerging artists, established artists, island pavilions, project spaces and a section for showcasing the heritage of Mauritius, alongside stimulating arts activities designed to engage and enthrall visitors as well as panel discussions, workshops and live performances.