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8th Feb at Trinity College Kandy 
Session 01 - 11:15 AM to 12:00 Noon
Session 02 - 15:15 PM to 16:00 PM

Paynter: The Painter, The Person - Delving into David Paynter’s Impact and Influence

A Talk By Dr. Avanthi Jayasinghe
(Counseling Psychologist/Visual Artist)

david paynter's mural at trinity college chapel (source wkipedia)

"The Painter, The Person: Delving into David Paynter’s Impact and Influence" is a captivating session at the Trinity College Chapel, where Dr. Avanthi Jayasinge, a Counseling Psychologist and Visual Artist, will explore the profound impact and influence of David Paynter. Paynter, a celebrated Sri Lankan artist, is best known for his murals at Trinity College Chapel. These artworks, deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture, reimagine biblical stories in local settings, blending Western art forms with Sri Lankan idiom. Dr. Jayasinge's talk, set in the very location of Paynter's iconic murals, promises an insightful exploration of the artist's legacy and his unique approach to integrating cultural narratives in his art. Attendees will experience a deeper understanding of Paynter's work and its significance in the fusion of art, culture, and spirituality.

paynter CLF art

Dr. Avanthi Jayasinghe

Counseling Psychologist/Visual Artist

Avanthi Jayasinghe is a counselling psychologist by profession and a visual artist by passion. Her works have been exhibited through both solo and group exhibitions, the most recent being at the Seed Cafe in Colombo in September 2023. She has won several awards in multiple fields of art and her works are in the possession of collectors both locally and internationally. Avanthi was awarded her PhD from the University of the Visual & Performing Arts in Sri Lanka, in which she focused on the works of David Paynter for her thesis.

9th Feb at Helga's Folly
Time - 11:00 AM to 12:30
Pass Price - LKR 3,000

Helga’s Folly Unveiled: A Captivating Tour Through Art, Mystery, and Time

A guided tour and talk with Helga De Silva Blow Perera, alongside her daughter Selina Blow (Fashion Designer) and niece Victoria De Silva Interior Designer)

Helga's Folly Hotel
helga's folly

Helga De Silva Blow Perera

Former Dior model

Helga De Silva Blow Perera, a former Dior model with a fascinating background, owns Helga’s Folly, a captivating hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Designed by her mother – Esme De Silva – in 1930, the brutalist concrete structure boasts a stunning view. The hotel’s allure lies in the vibrant murals covering every inch of wall space, initiated by Helga in 1988 as a therapeutic response to personal challenges. Guests included Vivian Leigh, Peter Finch, Sir Laurence Olivier, and Mahatma Gandhi. The hotel’s eclectic decor ranges from a black painted room to a dining room resembling a cheesy nightclub and another celebrating light and air with delicate baubles. Helga’s artistic touch has transformed this hotel into a unique and visually eclectic experience

10th Feb at JDA Perera Gallery, Colombo
Time - 10:00 AM to 10:45
Pass Price - LKR 2,200

Reviving MasterpiecesA Guided Tour of David Paynter’s Artistry and the Art of Restoration

Gallery tour guided by Dr. Priyantha Udagedara | Talk by Udaya Hewawasam on restoration

JDA Perera Gallery (source sunday times)
(source Thuppahi's blog)

“Reviving Masterpieces” at the JDA Perera Gallery is a unique chance to closely observe the art of David Paynter, a pivotal figure in Sri Lankan art. Led by Dr. Priyantha Udagedara, this tour highlights Paynter’s remarkable fusion of local and Western art traditions. Additionally, Udaya Hewawasam’s talk on art restoration offers insights into preserving these valuable works. This session, is a rare opportunity to delve into Paynter’s artistic world and the meticulous efforts to maintain his legacy.

 

11th Feb at Curado Art Space
Time - 11:00 AM to 11:45
FREE PASS

Sculpting Stories: Nicole Farhi’s Odyssey, Techniques, and Wisdom for Emerging Artists

Talk with Nicole Farhi

CLF Authors (9)

Nicole Farhi

fashion designer

Nicole Farhi first gained public recognition in the 1980s as a fashion designer. She created her eponymous label in 1982, 10 years after having started the well known French Connection company with her partner Stephen Marks.

She went on to win The British Fashion Award for Best Contemporary Designer 3 years running and she became one of the best known fashion designers in the UK, an inspiration to a generation of women.

11th Feb at Ceramic Department,
University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo 07
Time - 16:00 PM to 17:00 PM
Tickets - LKR 1,800

From Earth to Art: Ceramic Creation Workshop

Conducted by Dr. Ranjith Weerasinghe

Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of words and art at the Ceylon Literary Festival - Art Festival, brought to life in collaboration with the enchanting Curado Art Space.

Curado Art Space is the heart and vision of Shanila Alles, who has been in the picture framing industry for over 20 years. It is an intimate haven where artists can exhibit their art in all forms, allowing them a space to creatively express themselves while allowing viewers a space to identify their preferences.

Sri Lanka boasts a vibrant heritage of art and culture, deeply rooted in its history. Through the inaugural Ceylon Literary Festival, Curado Art Space aspires to immerse the attendees in a journey that transcends time, celebrating the fusion of history and modernity, through enlightening talks and workshops, fostering both creativity and education.