Sunday Times 2
George Keyt Foundation showcases the best of “Sri Lankan Art”
The George Keyt Foundation’s annual painting and sculpture exhibition titled “Sri Lankan Art” is now on at the J.D.A Perera Gallery. Showcasing the best of Sri Lankan talent for the 14th consecutive year, the exhibition which opened on November 27will continue until December 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
The white walls of the gallery held squares and rectangles of canvas; each a colour sketch of life. One saw men fishing in serene blue waters, sensual women reclining on sofas, a contented mother breastfeeding her infant, abstract paintings of splashes and splotches and even political caricatures. The beauty of the exhibits lay in the reality spoken by each one.
The aim of this exhibition is to provide established local artists a platform to showcase their work and an opportunity for society to see the evolution in Sri Lankan art at one location. The exhibits would be contemporary art work done by entrants within the current year.
“The main purpose of this exhibition is to provide an opportunity for artists to promote their art. We know the costs involved with staging an independent exhibition. So we want to help the artists to, show the public their talents and help them get to know other artists with whom they can share their ideas,” said Cedric De Silva, Chairman of the foundation’s Board of Trustees.
The exhibition was opened with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by chief guest Dr. Saman Kelegama, Executive Director of the Institute of Policy Studies.
“Art is a sophisticated subject through which you express your emotions. Sri Lanka Art is one of the key exhibitions organised by the George Keyt Foundation. It helps to keep the arts and sculptures of Sri Lanka alive.” said Dr. Kelegama, speaking at the inauguration ceremony.
Nations Trust Bank PLC’s American Express Cards is the main sponsor of this event.
Apart from the Sri Lanka Art exhibition, the George Keyt Foundation organises two other events that allow artists to do what they are best at. One is the “Kala Pola” which is a chance for all those who enjoy art to come, view and buy their works. It is usually held in the month of January. The other is the “Nawa Kalakaruwo” exhibition which focuses on upcoming artists and is held midyear, annually.