Artistry – An Art Exhibition Through Three Generations

Sugandhi Edirisinghe is no stranger to the art scene but this time she contemplated on doing something different. “My daughter said she wanted to join the exhibition this time and then her colleagues teamed together eventually. Having already invited Dr. Ariyasena, it naturally became an exhibit across the generations,” laughed Sugandhi.

Hence, ‘Artistry’, the culmination of artists of three generations, will be held at the Gandhara Showroom Gallery on 9 and 10 December 2014, showcasing creative talents evolved through the different ages.  Having spoken to the group of young artists, Chamindri Ganegoda, Dimitri Weliwita, Navin Bala, Pasanga Abeywardena and Ronela Edirisinghe, it is evident that Artistry is anything but conventional. To give a small idea, Ronela revealed that she would be using day to day items or raw materials for 2D works, or in other words, pop-ups.

The art exhibition will also be graced by a guest artist and Sugandhi’s mentor, Dr. W. A  Ariyasena, an Artist, Sculptor and a senior lecturer at the University of Kelaniya. He has been in the field of Fine Arts for more than 65 years and was awarded the prestigious Governor General Prize for the Best Painting of the Year in 1956 and 1960.  Dr. Ariyasena designed the Ceylon Government Crest/Seal of State, the symbol of authority, the senate mace and further several stamps. He has had the opportunity to visit many countries such as England, France, Germany, Italy, Egypt and India on scholarship to study Art and Sculpture.

Sugandhi among others artists have learnt from Dr. Ariyasena, to express their soul through their paintings. She has been exhibiting her art for the past 14 years, in collaboration with events such as International Women’s Day and World Environment Day.  “But it been almost six years since I had an exhibition, so I thought it’s timely to come up with a new concept that entices the art industry,” Sugandhi explained.
The exhibition was organised to benefit artists who express and bring light to certain creative aspects through art.

“It is the first time that an exhibition is being organised with a concept of this kind and the team intends to carry it out annually as a way of providing an opportunity for other talents to showcase their work on a regular basis,” chimed one artist.

‘Artistry’ is organised with the primary interest of growing and enhancing the creativity and quality of artists and their work. “Some of the artists participating in the exhibition are showcasing their work for the first time, and the main thing for them is to express themselves, and bring something new to the table,” smiled Sugandhi.

Visit the Artistry page on Facebook for more information.

Text by Melanie Senanayake