• Jayantha Pushpakumara’s latest exhibition to remain open until 31 August

Amidst a complex web of political, economic, social, and cultural challenges, contemporary Sri Lankan society finds itself at a critical juncture. These challenges in the country have created a situation where things are not going smoothly in people’s lives. These problems are not limited to any one area – they have affected every part of life. People in the middle and lower classes, who make up most of society, are particularly feeling the pressure.

In a society grappling with these issues, the solo art exhibition, “Situanism”, emerges as a beacon of artistic expression. With the power to delve into the core of contemporary Sri Lankan life, this exhibition aims to disclose the suppressed emotions, the stories of the oppressed, and the narratives of a society facing a multitude of crises.

A glimpse into ‘Situanism’

On 11 August, the opening preview at Gallery FourLife spotlighted the creative journey of the featured artist Jayantha Pushpakumara. With a versatile mastery, Jayantha’s art is enriched by diverse perspectives and forms. Besides his artistic contributions, he’s dedicated to nurturing the next generation as a lecturer at the University of Visual Arts. Holding a BA from the University of Visual and Performing Arts and pursuing postgraduate studies in sociology at the University of Kelaniya, his printmaking mastery has garnered acclaim, including top honours at the State Art and Sculpture Festival. His art embodies the philosophy that transformative growth arises from embracing challenges rather than accepting them as norms.

Introduction to printmaking

In mono-printing, an image is crafted using a smooth surface or “plate” coated with printing ink, often using materials like glass or metal. Unlike various other printing methods, this technique yields a sole, distinct image, creating a connection between drawing and printing that sets it apart from other processes.

Elevating Sri Lankan artistry

Gallery FourLife has graciously sponsored this event, “Situanism” art exhibition curated by Chathuranga Biyagama. The gallery’s mission is to always guide contemporary artists, providing a strong pillar of support, guidance, and encouragement. This initiative stems from Gallery FourLife’s unwavering commitment to fostering artistic growth and excellence. With a dedicated mission to uplift and promote exceptional artists, they are actively involved in empowering Sri Lankan artists to shine through their projects. Under the nurturing guidance of Gallery FourLife, these artists are being nurtured to evolve into better versions of themselves. This gallery serves as a dynamic platform that not only showcases art but also connects it with society on a profound level.

An eagerly awaited exhibition and sale of captivating prints commenced on 11 August 11, and the exhibition continues till 31 August 31. It is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The venue for this exciting event is Gallery FourLife, situated down Boteju Road, Colombo 5.

(Dinali Wijayasooriya is a contributor to Gallery FourLife’s ART magazine, the August issue of which the article was originally written for)

About the artist

Jayantha Pushpakumara, born in Opanayaka, Ratnapura, is engaged in a contrasting Journey as an artist, with his own perspectives and shapes. As a lecturer at the University of Visual Arts since 2012, he has been on a mission to bring forth a new creative generation of future artists. 

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Visual and Performing Arts, and is currently studying for a postgraduate degree at the Faculty of Sociology, University of Kelaniya.

His unparalleled skills in printmaking marked his name in the Sri Lankan scene. He was placed first at the State Art and Sculpture Festival in 2011, 2012 and 2017 and has conducted several exhibitions in Sri Lanka and overseas since 2011.

According to Jayantha’s point of view, normalising hardships instead of resisting them, creates a new major crisis. The objective of this exhibition was to manifest the tragedy of contemporary local life of the Sri Lankan lower middle class, through an artistic approach.