Segar’s paintings at “Focus on Asia” exhibition in South Korea
September 29 will mark the 14th edition of the Gongju International Arts Festival at the Limlip Art Museum in Gongju City, Korea. This year the festival themed “Focus On Asia” will have 50 artists from 12 Asian countries presenting 450 artworks. Representing Sri Lanka at this prestigious exhibition will be acclaimed artist D. Raja Segar who will exhibit 12 oil paintings. The exhibition will continue till November 30 this year.
South Korea’s Ambassador Chang Won-sam said, “I believe that this will be an ideal opportunity to further strengthen the mutual understanding and friendship between our two countries.” He said Segar’s invitation to the Arts Festival falls parallel to the 40th Anniversary celebrations of diplomatic ties between South Korea and Sri Lanka this year.
One of Sri Lanka’s leading painters, Segar’s life story is as inspiring as his work. Well known for experimenting with refractive light, he has exhibited regularly in Sri Lanka and abroad, including in Australia, Britain, Malaysia, Singapore and Canada.
This exhibition will mark Segar’s first showing in Korea and he aims to highlight the essence of the island by portraying the “day to day lifestyle of Sri Lankans. I’m very proud to represent Sri Lanka,” says the artist, affirming the need for a greater international presence by local artists. “We need more opportunities like this where we have platforms to present our paintings to an international audience.”
In collaboration with Segar, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea will host a Preview of 30 of D. Raja Segar’s works on September 22 to 23 at the Embassy (98, Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7) to give art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy Segar’s paintings, including the works that will be exhibited at the Gongju Arts Festival. The exhibition will be open to the public on Saturday, September 23, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
