In the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lankan art, one artist is using his art as a bridge between the past and the present, weaving together traditional motifs with contemporary expressions. Meet Chandika Jayan Gunasekara, an artist, designer, sculptor and illustrator whose journey began with a deep fascination for the intricate patterns and vibrant colours of traditional Sri Lankan paintings.

His early encounters with veteran artists like Jeevan Naide and Kalasuri S.P. Charles sparked a lifelong passion for preserving and revitalising Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.Captivated by the colours and motifs embedded in our cultural traditions, Chandika  embarked on a journey to infuse ancient techniques with a fresh perspective.

Navigating the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, Chandika draws inspiration from the symbiotic relationship between the past and the present. His research on artistic traditions across South and Southeast Asia reveals the timeless influence of heritage on contemporary art movements.
“My research convince me of the universal truth that modern movements draw inspiration from tradition. Due to a number of circumstances, the majority of our traditional arts and crafts techniques and expertise have disappeared from Sri Lanka,” Chandika says.

Through his work, he looks to preserve the spirit of the past while merging present day innovations.

Education has played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic journey. The European academic art style of his grandfather, H.P.D.C. Dharmadasa, who was also well-known in the South, served as an inspiration during his early years.

Further, Chandika honed his skills at the University of Moratuwa, each experience has left an indelible mark on his practice. “I had the amazing opportunity to learn traditional art and crafts with Ninel Fernando, a Design Professional and Trainer, during my time at the university. I was greatly impressed by her advice on incorporating tradition into contemporary works, “ says Chandika adding, “I am still studying how traditional practices have evolved into modern art, and I am currently researching the influences of traditional Japanese prints on contemporary art and design as well as the influence of traditional Indian art on contemporary artists and designers.” Through his studies, he delves into the evolution of traditional art forms into modern expressions, continually seeking to expand his artistic horizons.

While rooted in traditional practices, Chandika’s art transcends conventional boundaries, embracing digital innovation openly. His process begins with meticulous research and ideation, drawing inspiration from nature and the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. Through a blend of traditional mediums and digital techniques, he brings his creations to life, infusing them with depth and character.

Nature serves as a profound source of inspiration for Chandika, shaping his artistic concepts and compositions. From the rhythmic dance of trees to the delicate beauty of flowers, each element finds its place in his work, lending a sense of harmony and vitality to his creations.

Figurative art plays a central role in Chandika]’s creative process as well, allowing him to explore the human form in all its complexity. Drawing from the works of masters like Francisco Goya and Nandalal Bose, he infuses his figures with emotion and depth, breathing life into his digital canvases.

Looking to the future, Chandika envisions a path filled with artistic exploration and experimentation. Eager to delve into new materials and mediums, he seeks to push the boundaries of his craft, creating a body of work that tells a personal story while honuring the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture.

For aspiring artists venturing into the realm of digital arts, Chandika urges embracing the rich tapestry of art history, and drawing inspiration from the past while forging one’s own path forward. To do so he suggests noting the important moves in the field’s development and deriving conclusions from the data regarding those shifts and difficulties. “Finding your own style requires constant experimentation as well as an open mind to the wide range of styles available,” says Chandika adding that practice makes perfect and encourages young artists to stay motivated in the process.

In Chandika, we find not just an artist, but a storyteller, weaving together the threads of tradition and modernity to create a tapestry that is uniquely his own. As he continues to chart his artistic journey, he aims to create a body of work in the future that tells a distinct and personal story. “I aim to achieve this by creating a series of portraits of well-known and everyday Sri Lankans, each incorporating a unique personal narrative.”

(LHP)

 

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