• Trisha Dullu reflects on Kala Pola 2025

Trisha Dullu, an artist known for her striking abstract pieces, recently made her debut at Kala Pola, Sri Lanka’s vibrant open-air art fair, which took place on 16 February. Showcasing a collection of mixed-media works in earthy tones and monochrome palettes, she found herself immersed in a whirlwind of creative exchange and professional growth.

In conversation with The Daily Morning Brunch, Trisha reflected on her experience, from navigating first-time challenges to discovering unexpected opportunities.

Following are excerpts from the interview:

How was your overall experience showcasing your work at Kala Pola this year?

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to The George Keyt Foundation and John Keells Group for their unwavering partnership in organising this incredible event. Over the years, Kala Pola has evolved into a must-see and must-participate art fair in Colombo. What I truly appreciate is its inclusivity – it welcomes artists from all backgrounds, regardless of genre or career stage. Of course, one has to be quick to register, as the stalls fill up within hours!

This fair is a much-anticipated event in Sri Lanka, bringing together a diverse range of artistic talent – established, emerging, and undiscovered. The stall costs are reasonable, making it accessible, and the prime location in the heart of Colombo only adds to its appeal. This was my first time participating in Kala Pola, and leading up to it, I was quite anxious as I wasn’t sure what to expect from an event of this scale. However, I was pleasantly surprised.

Despite the heat, the experience was incredibly enriching. I had the opportunity to engage with genuine art collectors and enthusiasts, including many students studying art. Conversations about my work and process were both insightful and fulfilling. From a professional standpoint, I was able to establish valuable contacts and was thrilled to see serious collectors taking an interest in my pieces. The stall setup and overall experience of interacting with Kala Pola representatives were seamless and professional. Their years of experience organising the event were evident – they had perfected the system.

The entire process, from registration to stall allocation and guidelines, was managed efficiently online, making participation easy and convenient. My overall experience was excellent, and I am already looking forward to participating again next year.

What theme or concept did you explore in your abstract pieces?

Since it was my first time showcasing at Kala Pola, I wanted to present a well-rounded view of my artistic practice. I exhibited a diverse range of works, including ink and acrylic on both canvas and paper, as well as several large mixed-media pieces. I also included works of varying sizes to offer collectors a broader selection.

My work predominantly revolves around themes of impermanence, human connection, and the transient nature of life. These ideas were reflected throughout my collection, creating a cohesive narrative that gave visitors a clear understanding of my artistic vision and practice.

Did you receive any interesting feedback or reactions from visitors?

Yes, I received a lot of engaging, supportive, and even touching feedback from students, collectors, and art lovers. Many found my work fresh and unique, something they hadn’t seen before. Since I work with strong contrasts – mainly black and white and limited darker palette abstraction – I initially thought my style might be challenging for some to relate to. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that many visitors resonated deeply with my narratives and artistic expression. Knowing that my work connected with people on an emotional level brought me immense satisfaction and encouragement.

Were there any particular artworks that drew the most attention?

Interestingly, contrary to my initial assumption that smaller works would sell more easily, it was my larger mixed-media pieces that received the most appreciation and found new homes. This was an eye-opening realisation for me. While this might not be true for every artist, in my case, my passion projects – larger, more mixed-media intricate works – attracted serious collectors. This experience has given me a surge of confidence to continue exploring and expanding my practice in this direction.

How did you prepare for the event and did you face any challenges?

Since this was my first time at Kala Pola, setting up my smaller paintings was quite a challenge. Interestingly, fate intervened in the form of a wonderful artist couple at the stall next to mine. They generously provided me with materials to help set up my paintings properly when my initial method clearly wasn’t working. I’m incredibly grateful for their kindness – it’s moments like these that make such experiences even more memorable.

I am also blessed with incredible friends and support staff who played a crucial role in ensuring everything was organised seamlessly. In terms of preparation, I focused on the basics: Printing visiting cards, planning the layout of my stall, and organising packing materials. While there was a learning curve, the experience was invaluable.

Did participating in Kala Pola open new opportunities for you?

Absolutely – several, in fact. Kala Pola provided me with an incredible platform to connect with people I wouldn’t have otherwise met. I was able to network with collectors, fellow artists, and industry professionals, opening doors for future collaborations and opportunities.

What’s next for you and your work?

While I don’t want to reveal too much just yet, I do have several exciting projects lined up for this year and next. Kala Pola has certainly opened new avenues for me, and I look forward to exploring them. I strongly encourage all emerging artists to participate in this fair – it provides recognition and opportunities for artists at all levels.