FORTY-one percent of tourists that visit Honiara come to see culture and art in the country.
This was revealed by Ministry of Tourism and Culture in a two-day workshop organised for local artists this week, at Art Gallery exhibition house.
The workshop is part of Solomon Islands Artists Association (SIAA) 24th anniversary that is being marked this week.
Chairman of the artist week program, Robert Au Nama said, the workshop would give artists a picture of areas that they need to be aware of and to establish links with organizations.
The workshop highlights presentations from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, SIVB, Culture division, Inbound tour operator and Guadalcanal Travel Service.
Mr Nama said, each group gave an overview about their programs and activities on how they could work together and promote local artists.
“They are committed to working together with local artists, build links and support them with their art work,” said Nama.
He said, important areas were highlighted during the presentations to promote and benefit local artists.
The chairman said, the Ministry is committed to support artists in the country.
“The Ministry has highlighted that 41 percent of tourists that visit Honiara come to see culture and art. It is committed to support local artists to promote their art work,” he added.
About 40 artists attended the workshop.
SIAA was founded in 1991 and has over 200 artists who become members of the association.
The event is sponsored by SIVB, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, PNG High Commission, ROC, Guadalcanal Travel Service, Our Telekom and SPC Y@W and will end this weekend.
By TRIXIE CARTER
