Jayantha Silva's exhibition of paintings:

Expressions 3 on Figurative Art

THREE years ago, at a time when business was depressed, and he had time on his hands, Jayantha decided to return to his childhood love of painting. His first work was a mother and child. Looking at his finished work, he realized that his talent had not diminished, but blossomed and matured.

Jayantha would paint on weekends and decided to have an exhibition after about the tenth painting. His first exhibition 'Expressions' which was held at the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery in June 2003, was a resounding success.

The Lighthouse Hotel in Galle, was also very impressed with Jayantha's work. In July 2003 they invited him to have an exhibition at the hotel. As a result of this exhibition Jayantha was awarded a prestigious commission by the Tea Board, over five established and famous artists to do a 6'x11' 'Reception back' to be gifted to the Airport and Aviation office in Katunayake.

Jayantha's style is one of realism as opposed to abstract art. He is a perfectionist who strives for excellence. He attributes his talent to his habit of actively looking at the environment everywhere he goes, and also to his photographic memory which enables him to see something and store it in his mind, for recall many months or years later.

He also has the ability to see a finished work, when we would see only a black canvas. His forte is painting the human figure.

Even as a child he loved to paint figures and nude, at a time when children did not have the access to see such images.

Jayantha's recent works are at present being shown at the Lionel Wendt Gallery from 10.00 am to 8.00 pm.

The exhibition ends tomorrow, Sunday 8.