The annual ‘Beauty of Sri Lanka’ photography exhibition was held in Los Angeles, New York, and Washington D.C., concluding recently after a three-day showcase. The exhibition was inaugurated at the Celebrity Center International, Hollywood, by the Acting Consul General Anil Sirimanna in Los Angeles; followed by its New York edition held at the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations and opened by Deputy Chef de Cabinet of the Office of the UN General Assembly Blanca Montejo alongside Acting Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Chathura Perera.
Organised in collaboration with the America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society (ASPAS), the Sri Lankan Embassy in the United States, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, this travelling exhibition has now completed its fifth successful run in the U.S., and its second in New York.
President of America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society, Los Angeles Suriya Perera presents the souvenir of the Beauty Of Sri Lanka photo Exhibition 2025 to Head of the delegation of European Union to the United States, Ambassador Jovita Neliupšien. Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the USA Mahinda Samarasinghe to the USA is also in the picture.
In addition to the striking photographic narratives showcasing Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural pride, this year’s edition of the exhibition expanded its impact through several meaningful environmental initiatives. In response to the recent forest fire incident in Los Angeles, ASPAS led a symbolic tree planting initiative, planting 100 native Californian trees to support ecological restoration and demonstrate solidarity with the local community.
Aligning with Earth Day celebrations, ASPAS also hosted a children’s art activity under the theme “Environmental Sustainability”, bringing together young artists to express their visions for a greener planet. Adding further vibrancy to the program, a special children’s speaking segment titled “Voices of Young, Save our Planet” encouraged young participants to voice their thoughts on conservation and climate action, reinforcing the exhibition’s message of global environmental responsibility.
At the exhibition, President of ASPAS and the visionary behind the initiative Suriya Perera was presented with a Special Commendation Award in recognition of his ongoing efforts to promote Sri Lanka’s grandeur and natural charm internationally.
Several ambassadors and diplomats graced the events, including Blanca Montejo (Deputy Chief of Staff of the UN General Assembly), Chathura Perera (Acting Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka), Mahinda Samarasinghe (Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the U.S.), and Jovita Neliupšienė (Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United States). The exhibition also paid tribute to two distinguished individuals: Dr. Walter Jayasinghe was honoured for his lifetime service to the community, and Lal Hemantha Mawalage, veteran media professional and News Director of Siyatha TV, for his outstanding contributions to the field of communication. Three eminent Sri Lankan photographers—Lakshitha Karunarathna, Riznad Hussain, and Sameera Kotelawala—were among this year’s featured artists and were commended for their remarkable work across diverse photographic genres.
