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Artist Damith Indrajith opens his very own gallery in Pannipitiya

18 July 2019 01:19 am - 0     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Born in 1964 in Nauththuduwa, Matugama, young Damith Indrajith found himself developing a passion to draw and sculpt. During his late teens, Indrajith -- by then a budding artist -- got the rare opportunity to study under world-renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa. Enthralled by the sculptures he saw around the Bawa garden and residence, Indrajith came to recognize his own talents.   

Indrajith proceeded to earn a name in the hotel industry and is known as one of Bawa’s best students. He comes from a family of three boys and a girl, and his younger brother and son followed in his footsteps by becoming artist chefs themselves. Younger brother Chef Dimuthu Kumarasinghe admitted that Indrajith was his greatest inspiration.   

Indrajith not only creates art on canvas but creates sculptures and food art. Realizing that he could make the hotel industry his own, he set foot in the world of food and tourism and won many awards by participating in culinary competitions. He also rose to become ‘Master Chef’ at the Taj Samudra, Colombo where he is currently employed. During his time there, he has trained numerous budding young artists. Some of his creations are displayed in the hotel lobby.   

Almost 37 years ago Indrajith had hoped that one day he could present an exhibition in Colombo.The painter opened his very own gallery in Pannipitiya recently. The gallery, situated just below his residence, was opened last month.   

Inside the gallery a cement sculpture of Lord Ganesh can be seen displayed. Indrajith admitted that among the collection, this was the artwork he was most proud of. He strolled down memory lane to recall how, when studying under Bawa in 1982, his first sculpture had been that of Lord Ganesh. He was inspired by a stone sculpture that was placed in Bawa’s garden, which he liked and admired. “My piece was created from this sculpture that inspired me,” said Indrajith.   

Indrajith plans to retire soon. His focus thereafter would be on improving ‘Gallery 7’ along with the new branch that will be opened at One Galle Face Mall in Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo.  

 

Aside from the pieces displayed inside the gallery, sculptures and intricate displays of metal and wire could be seen in the garden and dotted along the walls of the house. The lush garden with vines crawling across the gate, houses a stone bench that allows ample room to sit and view these creations.   

When asked what led him to open the gallery, Indrajith said that ever since he started out at the early age of 18, it had been his dream to open a gallery. ‘Gallery 7’ was thus named, taking into consideration the month of his birth and the number of his residence.   

In Sri Lanka, interest in art appears to be picking up and has seen a steady growth. This is evident from the many art galleries that have opened in recent years and the numerous art exhibitions held as well. According to Indrajith, the art field is a competitive industry, but he considers it a pride and joy to open a gallery in his own country.   

Indrajith plans to retire soon. His focus thereafter would be on improving ‘Gallery 7’ along with the new branch that will be opened at One Galle Face Mall in Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo.  

The artist expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity that Bevis Bawa gave him, which led to his success and achievement. He also expressed his gratitude to the management of Taj Samudra and the entire group, for the opportunity and wealth of experience given to him during his tenure. He added that it was the utmost support, guidance and encouragement of his wife, children, relatives, colleagues and friends that gave him a chance to improve and be where he is today.


‘Gallery 7’ is open on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm. For more details on his art, contact artist Damith on (+94) 71 872 5213 or visit www.gallery7.lk


 


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