Finolhu Brings Contemporary Art to the Maldives with Yakov Khomich Residency in November

From 6–12 November 2026, resort guests in Baa Atoll can join painting workshops, group masterclasses and private creative sessions with the visiting artist.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Yakov Khomich will be artist-in-residence at Finolhu in Baa Atoll from 6 to 12 November 2026.
• The programme starts with a meet-and-greet on 6 November and a complimentary introductory art class on 7 November.
• Group masterclasses are scheduled for 8 and 10 November, with private sessions available from 7 to 12 November.
• The residency is part of the resort’s Art Lab programme and follows an October residency by designer Matthew Williamson.

Guests at Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort in the Maldives will be able to exchange a conventional island activity for an encounter with contemporary art when Yakov Khomich takes up a week-long residency from 6 to 12 November 2026. Through the resort’s Art Lab, the visiting artist will lead introductory and group workshops alongside private sessions, bringing a hands-on cultural programme to a setting better known for its beaches and marine environment.

The programme begins on 6 November with a meet-and-greet during Finolhu’s White Party. A complimentary introductory art class takes place on 7 November, followed by group masterclasses on 8 and 10 November. Guests seeking a more individual experience can book private art sessions on dates between 7 and 12 November, according to the announcement published by Visit Maldives.

Making art part of an island holiday

Rather than demonstrating a fixed image for participants to copy, the residency is designed around observation, experimentation and individual interpretation. The resort says its activities are intended to welcome guests with or without previous painting experience. This participatory approach turns art from something visitors simply look at into an experience they can create during their stay.

Khomich, who works between France and Russia, draws on memories, emotions, everyday symbols and cultural references. His approach is not tied to one visual technique, allowing ideas to develop during the painting process. Raised in an artistic family, he went on to study painting and film and television art at the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography (VGIK), graduating in 2023. His exhibition history includes appearances at Cosmoscow and Blazar art fairs, as well as presentations associated with ART&BRUT Gallery in Moscow and Sur Play at Museum NOU in Barcelona.

Creative travel in Baa Atoll

The residency builds on an existing programme at Finolhu, where the Art Lab offers activities including painting, pottery, fabric dyeing and resin art. The resort sits in the Maldives’ UNESCO-designated Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, pairing its creative workshops with an island environment associated with nature-oriented travel and marine experiences.

The November visit follows an October artist residency by British designer Matthew Williamson, whose work is recognised for its emphasis on colour and pattern. Together, the two programmes indicate how Finolhu is using visiting creative practitioners to broaden the types of experiences offered to holidaymakers beyond the resort’s established leisure activities.

For travellers considering the November programme, the distinguishing dates are the complimentary introductory class on 7 November, scheduled group sessions on 8 and 10 November, and bookable private instruction from 7 to 12 November. Further information and reservations are available through the resort’s official website. The announcement does not specify prices for private sessions or group masterclasses, so guests should confirm availability and any charges directly with Finolhu.