Jayantha captures local expressions
Ruwini Jayawardana
Thought |
I saw war... I see peace |
It’s still a long way to Nirvana |
‘Expressions of Sri Lanka’ , an exhibition of figurative art by
Jayantha Silva will be held at the American Center till June 11. Around
45 paintings, both black and white images and colourful sketches will be
exhibited.
Jayantha’s stint with the brush and paints began from childhood.
He had won many awards and certificates for his talent. At one
particular competition he even clinched the first, second and third
prizes. That was when veteran artist Mudliyar Amarasekara noted him and
offered him a scholarship at his art school.
Jayantha firmly believes that his skills is inborn. Therefore he did
not learn art under a teacher. He took to commercial art and built a
name in the Advertising sector. After the lapse of a few years he
decided to return to his childhood pastime and try his hand at painting
once again.
The results were astounding. It was like he had never stopped and he
was soon able to showcase collections of paintings at exhibitions from
2003. Titled ‘Expressions’ the series continued for years as Jayantha
showcased new works annually.
Using the mediums of acrylic, soft pastel, charcoal and colour pencil
Jayantha had captured the expressions and gestures of people. His
subjects are universal.
On his passion he says, “It is a tremendous satisfaction watching
figures materialise on a sheet of paper in front of me. Creating art can
transport you to another world. For me this has become a very addictive
and rewarding ritual. I am glad that so many others enjoy the result of
this self indulgence.”
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