Arts

Kala Pola beckons veterans and 10-year-old first timer

By Ruqyyaha Deane

View(s):

Greenpath ( Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha) was a sea of colour last Sunday as the 27th edition of Kala Pola took place attracting art lovers all day long.

From veteran artists who have been using this open art fair as a platform to exhibit their skills to new young talents showcasing their works, Kala Pola continues to be one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year.

Art has an uncanny ability to bring out people’s innermost thoughts, feelings and expressions — and at Kala Pola, be it through watercolour, charcoal, acrylics, clay or metal; it was a cascade of the artists’ passions.

At just 10 years old, Ranuga Nuwan Wickremaratne, one of the youngest participants tells us eagerly, “This is the first time I am attending Kala Pola and I am planning to do so in the future too.” He had wanted to come and show his paintings and sketches (mostly of wildlife) to the public.

Self-taught artist, Chandrika Dilrukshi has been drawing since she was seven years old. Being an active contributor to Kala Pola for around 12 years, she is grateful for the wider audience she reaches at the fair. Her captivating lifelike drawings caught the eye of many a passerby with their attention to detail.

“For people like us from Polgahawela, Kurunegala, coming to Colombo gives a great exposure,” shares Aloka Bandara. A participant at Kala Pola for 15 years, Aloka uses his background as a conservationist in the Department of Archaeology and visual arts knowledge to create sculptures made of stone, metal and wood.

M. Asanka Pushpakumara from Payagala (Kalutara) tells us he is inspired by nature and incorporates elements such as shells, sand and dried leaves in his works.

“The main benefit from coming to this is that I meet my university colleagues, learn a lot of new things each time and learn a lot from experts as well,” he answers on why he’s back at Kala Pola for the eighth time.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was Italian Ambassador Rita Giuliana Mannella who went around with members of Board of Trustees of the George Keyt Foundation.

There were also entertainment by ‘Music that Matters’, traditional Kandyan dances and other vibrant performances as well as a Children’s Art Corner by the Cora Abraham Art School that kept young artists busy.

An impressive demonstration of local talent, creativity, craft and skill, Kala Pola continues to be the stepping stone for artists to make their mark in the art world.