The Colombo Art Expo 2024 took place from September 6 to 8 at the J.D.A. Perera Gallery in Colombo.
It captured the essence of global cooperation and cultural exchange, presenting a rich array of artistic expressions from around the world. Held in one of Sri Lanka’s largest galleries, the expo featured a diverse range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, and photography.
The exhibition showcased the work of 46 artists from 10 countries, each bringing their distinct perspectives and creative energies. Among the participants were Sri Lankan artists Jagat Weirasinghe and Jagat Ravindra, Indian artist Mano Das, and notable figures such as S.C. Suman from Nepal. The contributions from talented artists from Bangladesh further enriched the event, adding depth and diversity to the exhibition’s narrative.
A special acknowledgment is warranted for Imran Hossen, the curator of this event. As a skilled and dedicated artist, he brought the event to fruition through his resourcefulness and extensive network.
Beyond showcasing art, the Colombo Art Expo served as a dynamic platform for dialogue and collaboration. Its mission was to nurture a global art community, fostering connections between cultures and ideas through the transformative power of art. By partnering with various organizations and individuals dedicated to international arts engagement, the expo aimed to build enduring relationships that transcend borders.
The Youth Observer visited the event and it was the best thing to see. The exhibition was a visual feast, with each painting and sculpture standing out in its own right. The Youth Observer managed to capture the thoughts of some of the esteemed artists present at the event:
Sathsara Ilangasinghe (Sri Lanka, born 1978): Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Painting, Faculty of Visual Arts, University of the Visual and Performing Arts. He emphasized that “Imran is a young and exceptionally talented curator, and this event represents a significant opportunity for both us and the faculty.” He commended the exhibition as “exceptionally well executed and a remarkable example of pure talent in collaboration.”
Motoko Wakana (Japan): After studying, training, and working as a ceramist in UNESCO Creative City Kanazawa, Japan, and with British traditional slipware potters such as Mary Wondrausch OBE in the UK, she set up her own practice and has been exhibiting widely as a member of the Craft Potters Association UK.
Her work, primarily slip decorated on dark clay and then reduction fired stoneware influenced by nature, was represented by an experimental piece reflecting her experience working in Sri Lanka. She mentioned, “I chose an experimental piece for this exhibition representing my experience working in Sri Lanka.”
S.C. Suman (Nepal, born 1961): A self taught artist who observed his grandmother creating ritual paintings in the Mithila tradition. He is a textile designer by profession, writer, art critic, and a celebrated radio host in Biratnagar and Birgang. Suman is a former Council Member and Head of the Folk Arts Department at the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, actively working for over 30 years to develop art and support artists.
Regarding his art, he highlighted “the intricate and structured use of colour in his work,” noting that he employs acrylics and ink in his compositions.
Shaikh Ahsan (India): With a BFA and MVA, and having achieved a gold and silver medal during his studies, he served as a creative head in an advertising agency for 10 years. He works closely on Urdu/Arabic calligraphy resembling Persian art and is exploring new techniques and styles.
Currently, he is a creative visualizer in an advertising studio in Gulbarga, Karnataka. Speaking to us, he said that “expression is one of his favourite things to do” and that the exhibition was “one of the best experiences of his life,” allowing him to meet many talented artists.
Sumon Chandra Das (Bangladesh), also known as Artist Kuasha Bindu: After completing a BFA in 2007 and an MFA in 2009 from the Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Ceramics, University of Dhaka, he works as a freelance artist. Although he studied ceramics, he primarily works in sculpture, painting, and researching various art mediums. He said that his art piece was “a fragment of his talent” and that his best work comes from his study of ceramics.
Aroni Chatterjee (Bangladesh): Her paintings reflect her emotions and are deeply connected to her life’s trinity of painting, music, and dancing. She said, “When I came to Sri Lanka I realized that people here are so warm and constantly smiling, and I have noticed that the art depicts that warmth, and it is wonderful. As for my paintings, I believe they are myself, my emotions, my soul, so I am very grateful that I get to showcase them like this.”
Zannatul Ferdus Keya (Bangladesh): She holds a BFA and MFA from the Department of Oriental Art, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka, and is currently a fine arts instructor at Shilpakala Academy under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. She identifies as a painter who works primarily with watercolor and acrylic media.
Her artwork often explores inner expression and emotions. Speaking to the Youth Observer, she said, “I like to paint my inner expression, my inner sadness. Normally I use watercolours and acrylic, and that way I try to paint a picture of my inner emotions.”
Rebeka Neela Noman (USA): Educated as an Accountant and currently a human resources consultant, Neela has always maintained a passion for the arts. Trained as a singer, she has performed in various countries, including the USA, Canada, and Bangladesh. Her painting depicted the 2024 people’s protest in Bangladesh from an aerial perspective, capturing a significant moment in the country’s history. She said, “It is a special moment in the history of the country and I wanted to capture it.”
