A group show of Pakistani and Sri Lankan artists was held at O Art Space Gallery. On display were the works of Ahmed Javed, Chaminda Gamage, K D Lakshman, Irfan Channa, Manushi Pathirana, Nelun Harasgama, RM Naeem, Sarath Perera, Syed Hussain and Waseem Ahmed.

Ahmed Javed received his bachelors in Miniature painting from the National College of Arts, Lahore. Through his art the artist documents life in the present. He aims to preserve traditional miniature painting, while acknowledging and adapting it to the present context. What makes his paintings different is that the artist incorporates himself into his art work. Painting himself into his work, he is unintentionally immortalising these moments (the present) on canvas, all the while preserving miniature art.

Chaminda Gamage has BFA in painting from the University if Kelaniya, Sri Lanka and has pursed higher education in Mass Communications, and holds a MPhil as well. He has displayed his work across the globe and won countless awards for his work. The artist works in acrylics and water colours, which together create different tones and hues of colours, making his work stand out. There is something extremely calming and soothing about his work.

Nelun Harasgama’s work is a take on samsara the eternal cycle of wounding death and mourning.” I paint news flashes and for the past 25 years disappearances attract me whether it be time, the environment or people.” Her work is moving and poignant and engages the viewer completely forcing them to think and ponder.

RM Naeem, one of Pakistan’s most well respected and well known artists also showcased some of his work in this exhibition. As always, his work is bold and captivating. The bright colour palette, repetitive background, attention to details brings out his subjects.

A wonderful mix of Pakistani and Sri Lankan artists, each proudly showcasing their talent and skill , making their respective countries proud of their handwork and dedication towards art.

CAPTION

Ahmed Javed, Atif Khan in Printmaking Studio II, Gouache and Silver Leaf on Wasli, 7.5 x 10 inches
Chaminda Gamage, Simple shapes, Acrylic & water color on paper, 11.8 x 16 inches, 2023
K D Lakshman, Hope I, Acrylic on Canvas, 19.6 x 23.6 inches, 2023
Irfan Channa, A Moment Before, Graphite & coffee on paper, 30 x 22 inches | 2023
RM Naeem, Now I, Acrylics on Canvas, 36 x 42 inches, 2023
Waseem Ahmed, Untitled II, Dry Pigment color, Gold leaf on handmade Archival Vasli Paper, 13.5 x 20.3 inches, 2023
Syed Hussain, Siblings, Children series, Opaque water color on wasli paper, 11.2 x 15 inches, 2023
Manushi Pathirana, My Soul I, Charcoal and pencil, 11 × 16 inches, 2022