Giving life to creepers

Nimal Wijayatunga Eheliyagoda special corr

B Tilakaratna, a traditional farmer and a clever artist of different nature of Paleegala nearly four kilometers off Eheliyagoda uses a variety of easily and freely available raw materials.

He makes lampshades, tablemats, bags and several attractive household items by using pamba creepers. These very strong tiny wire-like creepers are flexible and brownish in colour. So far Tilakaratna has made a large number of utensils with ‘pamba’ creepers.

He cuts rings, pendants and a variety of buttons by using Katu-pol or palm nut shells when finished they are self shining.

Tilakaratne makes different types of vases and other exhibits by carving coconut husks.

At present he makes some Ruk kala items with roots of trees and branches etc. He already won several prizes for his matchless creations.

Rings and pendants made of Katu-pol shells

Pamba creeper tablemats. Pictures by Nimal Wijayatunga, Eheliyagoda special correspondent