Art in use

By Salma Yusuf

Truly passionate about developing the art of pottery in Sri Lanka, Ajith Mohan Perera wishes to amaze and educate the people of his country on how much can be done within limited resources.

The objective of his exhibition, on today at the National Art Gallery he says, is to exhibit art in its pure form, which can be appreciated purely in an aesthetic sense. This he exhibits side-by-side with derivations from this pure art form – pottery of a functional value. Thus the title, ‘Art + Utility’.

The viewer can place orders for the utility products, which will be on sale at very affordable rates. His exhibition has nearly 350 creations made with his own hands and with 100% Sri Lankan raw materials.

He also aims to enlighten people on the stage at which pottery is in Sri Lanka, so that they may use this as a platform to advance the industry further, his ultimate goal being to give way to the starting of a domestic pottery industry.

Tea sets, dinner sets, dishes and cups in all shapes, sizes and colours will enthrall visitors, who will see a true sense of individuality and creativity… Being self-taught, Ajith highlights that art in its pristine form and utility is important in the 21st century, especially in a country like ours where art can no longer be received and developed for art’s sake alone, but rather serve a more functional purpose, which can benefit even those who don’t have aesthetic inclinations.

‘Art + Utility’, an exhibition of Studio Pottery by Ajith Mohan Perera, works of which can be seen on a routine basis at The Pottery Shop, Majestic City is on from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today at the National Art Gallery.