Maldivian lacquer handicraft, also known as Liye Laajehun, was once practiced all over the island nation. Today, Thulhaadhoo is one of the few islands where the age-old lacquer practice still survives.

The age of fast-moving consumer goods has obscured traditional, small-scale arts and crafts. Sadly, Liye Laajehun, traditional art of wood carving, is one of these crafts. Speed to market is crucial to meet demand and industrialized manufacturing now produces art forms that previously required years of practice and skill, at scale.

Additionally, younger generations of Maldivians have little interest for the traditional arts and crafts once treasured by the population. There is a diminishing interest in the traditional arts, and furthermore, the number of those who can practice the artform is few, resulting in the traditional art of Liye Laajehun on the verge of disappearance.

The experience is designed to help preserve the rich cultural heritage of Liye Laajehun for future generations.

Guests participating in the experience play a key role in supporting local craftsmen and the Liye Laajehun industry. The Liyelaa workshops will not only give our guests the chance to create something of their own, but also to help keep the art alive. By buying crafts directly from the producers, guests directly support the local economy, and by taking pieces of the art back home, guests are helping to preserve the traditional craft and heritage.