Celebrating craftsmanship
Uvindu Illperuma
Lakdiva Athkam Silpa Kala, a book written by Rathnapala Nagodawithana
on the historical background of Sri Lanka’s handicrafts and social
conditions of craftsmen was launched at the complex of Battaramulla
Janakala Kendra on August 26.
The book discusses on the history woven around Sri Lanka’s
handicrafts which traces back to the time of Arahath Mahinda Thera.
History reveals that many craftsmen from different fields of arts
came with Arahath Mahinda and established their crafts in the country.
The existence of tradition of arts and crafts of high quality in the
areas of Kandy, Matale, Kegalle and in the coastal belt to the Southern
parts of the country bear ample testimony to prove the impact of Arahath
Mahinda’s arrival on local art.
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Embroidery work |
The book suggests that high standards of excellence of these products
had been reached in the medieval period.
Sri Lanka as an island which is gifted with raw material is tailor
made for the industry.
Traditional arts and crafts must have had the ability to attain high
standards of excellence. The state patronage was greatly obtained for
this field.
The book shows how the families which are pertaining to traditional
arts and crafts led a happy life as the state took the vanguard in
facilitating them to acquire wealth and prosperity as a token of
appreciation.
The families engaged in manufacturing jewelery, brass, metal work,
wood carving seems to be earning a good income opposed to those who are
engaged in traditional pottery, reed and rush, weaving, sewing,
embroidery, doll making.
Youth contribution is the most indispensable fact for the industry’s
survival but so far the craftsmen had not received a proper education.
They need to be equipped with knowledge to grasp information on new
products, research and development, new techniques and the current
trends of the market.
The role played by women in the industry is also behind the curtains
despite the fact that they are the breadwinners in some families.
Their contribution should be met with appreciation.
The introduction of a national policy to foster and protect the
crafts and craftsmen which is emphasized in the Mahinda Chintana would
help to make a brighter future for them and the industry. |
