Kolambage brings Buddharaja

Disna MUDALIGE

Watercolour

A colourful creation

Veteran Artist Gunasiri Kolambage’s latest painting exhibition titled ‘Buddharaja’ was held at the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery in Colombo from April 27 to 29 procuring appreciation of art lovers.

‘Supremely Enlightened Buddha’ was the theme of the exhibition that consisted of 47 paintings predominated by the image of the Buddha. Artist Kolambage had used different mediums including watercolours, oil on canvas, oil on board and pastel for his latest series of Buddha portrayals.

He had begun work on this series in January last year.

“My limitless adoration and respect for the supremely enlightened Buddha provided me with the impetus in this creative effort. I had to stop my paintings for three months because my health deteriorated. But with determination and courage I resumed painting and complete the task” he said. Seasoned journalist Edwin Ariyadasa admiring the latest series of paintings by Artist Kolombage observed that those were blended with mature techniques of professional art and creativity making a unique contribution to the history of Buddhist art.

The aesthetic journey of Kolambage has begun more than half a century ago.

“I try new experiments on a daily basis. Today too I spend time studying the art. I am a student of 73 years” he expressed.

He had travelled to many countries and has provided his service as an art director to many local and foreign companies. He has won over 20 local and international accolades. He had participated in a large number of local and international painting exhibitions and had conducted solo and joint exhibitions under various themes.