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Updated by Joanna James on May 02, 2024
Headline for Arts and Crafts in Sri Lanka - A journey through timeless artistry
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Joanna James Joanna James
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Arts and Crafts in Sri Lanka - A journey through timeless artistry

When someone says Sri Lanka is a land of splendour, you better believe it! If you're an art enthusiast looking to gain insight into Sri Lanka and its deep history of arts and crafts, keep reading.

1

Overview

Art in Sri Lanka holds a beauty of its own and this is apparent to anyone! A lot of art in Sri Lanka embodies its long history, heritage and culture. Art in Sri Lanka is truly unique, and you'll see colours such as reds, oranges and yellows more often than other colours. Art and crafts in Sri Lanka are worth exploring, and you may also take a shot at trying it out on your own. To witness Sri Lankan Art in all its glory, pay a visit to the likes of the Sri Lankan Art Gallery.

2

Performing Arts

There is no doubt that performing arts play an immense role in Sri Lanka's heritage. There are numerous types of performing arts, the most popular being Ves dance, Kolam, Udekki dance and Pantheru dance. Each of these performances holds a very deep meaning behind them and usually tells an important story. If you're in Kandy during the month of August, make sure you take some time off to witness the annual Perahera.

3

Pottery and Clay

Sri Lanka is well-known for its clay and pottery. In fact, you will notice clay pots being used in numerous eateries around the island. Pottery is one of Sri Lanka's oldest handicrafts, dating back to the commencement of the Sinhala civilisation. Natural clay is used to create a wide range of artistic objects. The best of these things might be seen or purchased in Molagoda, which is located off Kegalle on the Kandy route. If you want to try your hand at the craft, there are plenty of pottery workshops available in Colombo. Clay is free of any harmful substances, which is why it is used for cooking around the country. Food cooked in clay pots is usually much tastier!

4

Cane Industry

During your travels, your eyes will also be drawn to plenty of cane products. This is a traditional industry in the country that has been functioning for generations. Weweldeniya is known as the hub of Sri Lanka's cane industry. Cane is also known more commonly as Rattan, across the globe. The technology and art of processing cane have been passed down through generations in Sri Lanka.

5

Batik

If you like bright colours and stunning designs, you ought to buy yourself a batik garment! Batik started hundreds of years ago in Indonesia and Malaysia. It was imported to Sri Lanka during the Dutch era and has been loved and appreciated by Sri Lankans ever since. The craft has evolved into a distinct style that is used to create shirts, sarongs, shorts, wall hangings, pillow covers, and a variety of décor items. Batik is a wax-resistant colouring technique and cotton is used as the fabric because of its high absorption rates. Indulging in a batik garment allows you to embrace the rich cultural heritage and artistic finesse that this ancient craft brings to your wardrobe and living spaces.