Shilpa 2013 from August 15 to 18

Anushika Ranadewa

The National Crafts Council under the Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Ministry will hold Shilpa 2013 National Crafts Festival and award ceremony from August 15 to 18 at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Hall, Colombo 7.

This was revealed at an awareness programme on Shilpa National Crafts Festival which includes a handicraft competition, exhibition and trade fair organised by the National Crafts Council of the Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Ministry at the Janakala Kendraya Complex in Battaramulla on Thursday.

Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Deputy Minister Weerakumara Dissanayake said the state sector is working with a new spirit after the 30 year war under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Dissanayake citing the Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board better known as Laksala, the only state owned gift and souvenir boutique as an example, said Laksala has been transformed and was growing stronger daily.

"Various programmes have been launched to boost industries. Craftsmen should make use of these opportunities to enhance their livelihood as well as the country's economy," he said.

National Crafts Council Chairman Buddhi Keerthisena said unlike previous exhibitions, Shilpa 2013 will be distinctive and commercial in flavour.

Laksala-Sri Lanka Handicraft Board granted Rs 5 million towards the Shilpa National Crafts Festival.

The deputy minister said the rich history, legacy and heritage of a country can be witnessed through the country's arts and craft.

"Therefore, craftsmen too do an exceptionally responsible job by bringing the heritage of the country to international level," he said.

The exhibition will be held to identify talented artisans in rural area, train and guide them to reach international standards, develop souvenir and gift ware for the tourism sector and to stage a competition to present awards to master craftsmen. Provincial competitions and exhibitions will be conducted for 19 categories of handicrafts and 54 sub categories.

National Crafts Council Chairman Buddhi Keerthisena and Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board Chairman and CEO Anil Koswatta were present.