Lucknow: A slice of Sri Lanka’s cultural soul found expression in the city on Sunday as ASHTPRAVAH, an exhibition featuring eight emerging Sri Lankan artists, opened at Kala Srot Art Gallery.The show, presenting over 30 artworks, will remain on display until March 3 between 2 pm and 8 pm daily.Curated by gallery director Mansi Didwania, the exhibition seeks to foster cross-cultural dialogue through art. “This exhibition is an attempt to build meaningful cultural bridges through art. Each artist brings a unique perspective rooted in Sri Lankan heritage yet resonant with global contemporary practices,” she noted.Through painting, sculpture and mixed media, the artists explore themes of identity, memory, tradition and contemporary life. The works reflect both personal narratives and broader social realities.Artist Rambukkanage Avinda portrayed Sri Lanka’s social landscape shaped by his childhood experiences. “I painted what I observed in my surroundings since childhood — freedom, everyday struggles of ordinary people, social divisions and religious beliefs,” he explained.The participating artists — Mahesh Chathuranga Ekanayaka, Akalanka Herath Bandara, Venura Dilshanka De Silva, and Avinda Tishan Fernando — present diverse stylistic approaches influenced by their cultural histories and present realities.
