Vibrant colours

By Wathsala Mendis

If one has an eye for beauty and creativity then Collage Gallery is the place to be. The gallery is the brainchild of Nilanthi Karunaratne, who moulded in the 'J.J. School of Art' in Bombay and the 'College of Art' in New York, dreamt of opening her own place some day. Today she not only has realized her dream but also has expanded her work to areas of designer wear, quilts, cushions, pillows and interior accessories.

Oil and pastel paintings, hand painted screens depicting Sri Lankan and Indian culture adorn the walls of the Gallery. Sculptures, coir-worked and painted clay pots are scattered in a room full of cushions in different designs stencilled, screen printed, appliqued and hand quilted to suit all fantasies in colour and texture. So also are the huge body pillows and floor cushions meant for easy lounging.

The "Quilts Room" boasts of an exclusive collection of patched, appliqued and hand painted quilts which also include colourful children's quilts with co-ordinated lines and cushions.

A wide array of cotton and silk separates - one of a kind to suit that special person - in exclusive designs, hand painted and cord-worked is available at the Collage Gallery. These are also sent to Tri Smart Department Store, the London Shop, and two hotels in the Maldives.

Fifteen people including three tailors and an artist are employed at the Gallery while Nilanthi does all the paintings herself. Some of these paintings have been sent to Pakistan, Los Angeles, London, Vienna, Australia and South Africa. Her passion for rich vibrant colours is evident in almost all of her works of art.

The annual exhibition of paintings and sculptures by Nilanthi Karunaratne will be held at the Lionel Wendt from September 24-27 sponsored by Union Assurance Ltd.

Return to the Plus Contents