The Full DNA - Iromie Wijewardena 

Anusha David spotlights the hottest styles and statements in and around Sri Lanka – from political leaders to celebrity CEOs, masters of the game to fashion icons and stars of the silver screen and stage. Here are society’s leaders talking about the determination, vision, smarts, competence and professionalism. Today, she speaks to Iromie Wijewardena.

Iromie Wijewardena, a graduate of the Institute of Aesthetic Studies of the University of Kelaniya (now the University of Visual and Performing Arts) and of Wilson College, USA, is a celebrated Sri Lankan artist and occupies a prominent place in Asian art. She commenced her career in painting over four decades ago. Iromie has her works permanently displayed in prestigious galleries, banks and public buildings nationally and internationally. One of her paintings hangs at the Lyudmila Zhivkova International Foundation Gallery in Sofia, Bulgaria beside the works of the great French masters and other internationally acclaimed painters. 

In 1984, her traditional painting 'The Royal Procession' was Sri Lanka's choice for the permanent collection at the 'Josip Broz Tito Gallery' for the art of the Non-Aligned Countries in former Yugoslavia. This painting was also selected by the Yugoslavian government for an 8 Dinar postage stamp in the country. She created history by being the first Sri Lankan artist to depict a painting on a foreign postage stamp. 

The beauty of the female form is predominant in her recent works. Her portrayal of the serenity of women as mothers, wives, homemakers or breadwinners questions society whether these women who perform such noble tasks could be abused, raped and made victims of violence. Her recent paintings display the use of a multitude of textures - oils, mixed media on canvas, conte crayon, acrylics, inks, and chalks on paper, and a bright bold colour palette. She recently participated at World Art Dubai, the only Sri Lankan artist to do so. 

 

 

Iromie at the easel 

After my maiden solo exhibition in 1973 when I was still a student  at Ladies’ College. The entire exhibition was acquired for private collections. This encouraged me that my true calling lay in the sphere of aesthetics. 

Who or what has influenced your paintings the most? 

My muse for my paintings are the rural women, the traditional and fusion dancers and musicians of Sri Lanka. These have influenced my paintings. 

How many countries have you exhibited in to date? 

12 countries. 

 

 

Chairperson Jury Committee of the 12th Asian Art Biennale with former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia 

It is hard to single out one artist. There are so many artists whose work I greatly admire. 

How many exhibitions have you held to date? 

17 solo exhibitions and 24 international group exhibitions. 

Describe your experience at World Art Dubai. 

It was a whole new experience. This was the very first time I exhibited in the Middle East and was taken by surprise to witness what an art hub Dubai really is. The exhibition consisted of international  artists and galleries across four continents with a collection of 3000 contemporary works. It was also great that apart from the  exhibition there were art talks and demonstrations by some of the participants and this was a wonderful opportunity to interact and get acquainted with their work. 

How many paintings have you completed to date? 

It is impossible for me to have kept count, so I stopped counting! 

 

Devotees selected for the Lyudmila Zhivkova International Foundation Art Gallery, Sofia Bulgaria

How long do you take on an average to complete a painting? 

No specific duration of time. Sometimes I can complete in 2 days. Other times it can take 2-4 weeks. It depends on the size of the painting, the technique and medium used and mood. 

Could you describe your process. 

Once I find my inspiration and get the sketch onto the canvas, layer upon layer of paint is applied to achieve  the texture and depth of the subject matter. 

Your paintings are known for the use of vibrant colour – what is the reason for this? 

The reason for using a palette of vibrant colour is very natural living in a tropical country. Everything around me is bright and colourful and this effect influences my paintings. 

 

Graduation University of Kelaniya - Institute of Aesthetic Studies 

What do you regret the most in your career? 

I have no regrets but count my blessings and be thankful for my accomplishments as a gift from above. 

Which is your favourite amongst all your paintings and why is it so? 

‘The Royal Procession’, ‘ The Musicians’ ‘The Devotees’ and ‘Vesak’ to name a few which brought me international fame and awards. 

 

Iromie with Natalie after receiving the Zonta Woman of Achievement Award in 1988

Who are three people in history you admire most and why? 

Two that come to my mind - Mother Theresa for her selfless commitment and dedication she showed throughout her life time and Amrita Sher Gil, an immortal icon of India, a legend in her own life time who dared to focus women artists in a male dominated profession. 

What’s the happiest or proudest moment in your life? 

The happiest and proudest moment of my life was to witness my daughter’s graduation. 

What’s the best compliment you ever received? 

When my husband Lucille and daughter Natalie told me how proud they were of me after my last exhibition in Sri Lanka ‘A Celebration of Women’. 

 

The launch of her book Iromie Wijewardena paintings with Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne and Hon. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya 

What advice did your parents give you that you best remember? 

My parents taught me to always persevere and never give up on what I believe in. 

What is your goal as a parent? 

My goal as a parent is to be just as much her friend as I am her parent and instill good values which would help her to be confident, independent and an asset to society. 

 

The Royal Procession selected for a 8 Dinar Postage Stamp in former Yugoslavia

What’s your most cherished family tradition? 

Not a tradition as such but I cherish all the memories I have made travelling and experiencing new things with my family. 

Who were your heroes or role models when you were a child? 

My mother. 

What do you think has stayed the same about you throughout life? 

My zest for creativity and facing every challenge with a positive mindset. 

 

With India's pre-eminent woman artist Anjalie Ella Menon at the SAARC Artist Meet in New Delhi, India

How do you like to relax? 

Reading and glancing over my favourite magazine ‘The Architectural Digest’ which is very therapeutic and going on holidays with my family. 

What are your hobbies and special interests? 

Interior design, designing jewellery and gardening. 

Which single book has greatly influenced you, and why? 

‘Daughter of Destiny’ – the autobiography of the late Benazir Bhutto, which is a historical document of the Oxford scholar, brilliant and courageous. It inspires me to be strong and determined with all the goals I have in my life. 

Do you see yourself continuing as an active painter literally till the very last moment? 

When you love what you do why put a time limit? 

 

Iromie with husband Lucille

What are you working on currently? 

Sifani Jewellers are due to present a ‘mini’ exhibition of my paintings along with another artist this month and I am getting my paintings executed for this exhibition. 

What do think needs to be done locally to promote both Sri Lankan art as well as artists? 

We need a lot more state patronage and assistance given to artists to promote their work nationally and internationally. More exposure to international art events would enhance the artists to broaden their knowledge and to develop their  skills to promote their work. 

What is your message for upcoming artists both here and abroad? 

It is not an easy road to become an artist. My advice to artists is to develop their original unique style and not to rely on imitating works of contemporary artists. If you resort to  copy works of living artists  just to become an ’artist’ you would face a dangerous situation. It is essential to work hard and develop your individual style and always have faith and persevere. Do not rely on the idea that artistic achievement is a product solely of talent. 

Interviewed by Anusha David