R.D. Nisith Chanmal, a 14-year-old student currently attending Royal International School in Kurunegala, resides in Mawathagama. Nisith is a dedicated artist and athlete, passionate about drawing and participating in athletics. His talent in art has been recognised through various achievements, including winning the 2024 ‘International Children’s Owl Art Contest’ of the ‘International Festival of Owls’. Nisith aspires to become a doctor to serve others and believes in the power of art to uplift spirits and bring healing to those in need.

The ‘Owl Art Contest’ started around 2004 as a colouring contest to involve local young people in the ‘Festival of Owls’. Over the years, it has grown into a highly competitive international art competition with over 2,000 entries from dozens of countries each year. Nisith’s drawing was chosen first out of about 3,920 entries from 33 countries and 29 US states.

Could you introduce yourself? 

My name is Nisith Chanmal and I’m 14 years old. Right now, I’m attending Royal International School in Kurunegala. My hometown is Mawathagama. I live with my parents and I’m an only child. I have a little kitten named Chooty, who is my adorable pet. In my free time, I enjoy drawing and participating in athletics. Volleyball is my favourite sport and I also like to read novels occasionally.

When did you start drawing? 

I think I’ve been drawing since nursery onwards, but I really began to notice my talent around Grade 6. It was my father who first pointed out that I had a knack for it. Last year, I started attending classes to enhance my skills further.

Your drawings are quite unique. Do you have a preferred style? 

I’m versatile and can work with any type of art, but my favourites are cartoons and abstract pieces. Currently, I’m focusing on learning to draw human figures and design in my classes. I’ve also chosen art as a subject for my Ordinary Level Exams, so I’m learning even more about it in school.

Can you share about the recent competition you won? 

I participated in the 2024 ‘International Children’s Owl Art Contest’ of the ‘International Festival of Owls’ and was chosen as the winner in the age 10-14 category. My mother discovered the competition and encouraged me to apply last November. It wasn’t until February of this year that I found out I had won. I was absolutely thrilled and filled with excitement when I received the news.

What are your plans for improving your art skills? 

In Sri Lanka, I aim to inspire other students to pursue art in the future. Art appreciation isn’t as common here, so I want to change that by showcasing the beauty and significance of art. By sharing my passion and encouraging others to explore their creativity, I hope to foster a greater appreciation for art in my community.

How do you define art? 

To me, it’s when we take what’s in our minds, use our hands to create it, and then share it on paper or other surfaces. It’s a way of expressing thoughts and feelings visually.

How do you feel when you’re drawing? 

I feel a sense of freedom to explore my thoughts and imagination.

Do you have any role models in art? 

Yes, my role models are Picasso and Michelangelo. I often refer to their drawings for inspiration and guidance in my own artistic journey.

What makes Picasso and Michelangelo special to you? 

When I look at their drawings, I can see the freedom in their minds reflected on the paper. That sense of liberation in their work brings me joy and inspires me to express myself freely in my own art.

Tell us about your involvement in athletics. 

I attend regular practices and recently achieved success in three championships during our school’s sports meets. I excel in both running and field events.

How do you manage your time between athletics and other activities? 

I prioritise both athletics and my other interests equally, ensuring that I dedicate enough time to practise and excel in both areas. Finding this balance is crucial to me as it allows me to pursue my passions effectively while still enjoying a well-rounded lifestyle.

What’s your ambition? 

I aspire to become a doctor so that I can serve others who are not well.

Do you think art can also heal others? 

Absolutely. Sometimes, just by looking at a painting for a moment, we can feel a sense of freedom and healing wash over us. Art can lift spirits, stir emotions, and offer comfort to those in need.

Is there anyone you’d like to express gratitude to? 

Certainly. I want to thank my mother and father for their support and encouragement. Additionally, I’m grateful to my art master, Senaka Jayasinghe, for his guidance and mentorship.