Life style
The George Keyt Foundation debuts limited edition
prints of ‘Kangodi Ragini’honouring masterpiece
The George Keyt Foundation presented limited edition prints of ‘Kangodi Ragini’ – a mode in Indian music – painted in 1951 by the iconic Sri Lankan artist, the late George Keyt, to Art Connoisseurs recently. The painting along with 20 other works was presented to The George Keyt Foundation by George Keyt himself in 1990.
Thirty ‘limited edition’ prints of this Artwork were created out of which 28 prints were acquired by admirers of his work, reflecting the enduring appeal of George Keyt’s art.
This event marked a milestone for both preserving Keyt’s legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned Modern artists, as well as helping secure funding for the George Keyt Foundation’s ongoing activities to support the nation’s visual arts community.
The Foundation emphasized the significance of the chosen painting; ‘Kangodi Ragini’ – as the largest painting at 60 x 42.5 inches, in the Foundation’s collection and critics consider it to be one of its finest. The timeless painting’s vivid colours and modernist figures are brilliantly representative of Keyt’s artistic genius. It is also one of his few surviving paintings from a brief period spent in India. The original 1951 painting narrowly avoided damage in a fire that destroyed much of Keyt’s other work stored in India.
The significant painting, dormant from public view for nearly three decades, stands out not only for its artistic brilliance but also for its historical journey. The Foundation chose this masterpiece for its limited edition print both in appreciation of Keyt’s pioneering aesthetic vision, as well as to make his work accessible to art devotees.
Malaka Talwatte, Chair, Board of Trustees, George Keyt Foundation said, “In creating George Keyt Foundation certified limited edition prints of George Keyt’s iconic masterpiece, we celebrate his enduring legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s most influential modern artists. The George Keyt Foundation continues Keyt’s legacy not only by making his works accessible to new audiences, but also by actively nurturing the next generation of Sri Lankan artistic talent. We believe art has an unparalleled capacity to uplift humanity and are committed to supporting artists across the island to refine their craft and share their unique creative visions.”
George Keyt (1901-1993) is hailed as the country’s most celebrated visual artist. He blended classical Eastern and Western aesthetics with an original pictorial language. As a leading figure of the Asian modernist art movement, Keyt’s vivid, fluid style captivated global audiences.
His enduring legacy continues through his art and the George Keyt Foundation which supports Sri Lankan artists. Keyt formulated an aesthetic, interweaving indigenous traditions with modernism, leaving an indelible impact, inspiring generations, and contributing to the development of Sri Lankan art.
Endorsing to Keyt’s legacy, the George Keyt Foundation has pioneered numerous Art initiatives over its 35-year history. Through organizing exhibitions, events, and annual programs including the Young
Contemporaries’, ‘Lankan Art.’ ‘Kala Pola,’ and ‘Nawa Kalakaruwo’, the Foundation provides opportunities for local artists to develop and showcase their work.
The Foundation also promotes collaborations, offers exposure to artists, and publishes catalogues and books on George Keyt. The George Keyt Foundation also rehabilitated the shrine room housing Keyt’s iconic ‘Life of Lord Buddha’ murals at Gothami Viharaya, Borella. Generous sponsors continue to assist the Foundation’s work in advancing the revival of arts and introducing new generations of Sri Lankan artists.
Life style
Testament to timeless craftsmanship and modern elegance
By Zanita Careem
Renowned for its exceptional artistry and dedication to timeless design, Tiesh reaffirms its status as a leader in jewellery innovation with the relaunch of its iconic ‘For Him’ men’s jewellery collection. First introduced in 2016, the collection has been reimagined to cater to the modern man, celebrating the understated elegance of silver, gold, and natural gemstones.
Men’s jewellery has made a notable comeback in recent years, evolving from traditional timepieces to versatile accessories that add character and sophistication. Tiesh’s refreshed collection seeks to redefine men’s jewellery as an essential part of self-expression and style.
“We are witnessing a significant shift in men’s fashion, with jewellery taking centre stage as a form of self-expression and a mark of individuality,” said Director of Tiesh, Ayesh De Fonseka. “The resurgence of men’s jewellery has been fueled by increasing demand from men seeking distinctive pieces and women looking for meaningful gifts. Our new collection aims to fill this gap by offering designs that blend classic sophistication with modern aesthetics.”
Tiesh’s ‘For Him’ collection introduces an array of meticulously crafted accessories, including sterling silver bracelets, gemstone-encrusted gold cufflinks, lapel pins, tie pins, and statement rings. Each piece reflects Tiesh’s hallmark sophistication, fused with contemporary elements to suit the discerning tastes of today’s men.
In addition to its signature pieces, the collection features bespoke designs, allowing customers to work closely with Tiesh’s expert designers to create personalised jewellery. This customisable approach extends to innovative offerings like customised leather belts with sterling silver buckles and monogrammed cufflinks, perfect for those seeking unique and valuable gift options.
Pix by Thushara Attapathu
Life style
Turkish Airlines sets Guinness World records
Turkish Airlines has a 30-country lead over its closest competitor in this hard-to-break record
Turkish Airlines, which has held the title of flying to the most countries in the world since 2012, has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records™ as the record holder. The national flag carrier has successfully achieved the Guinness World Records™ title for the “Most Countries Flown to by an Airline”.
The record certificate was presented at Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport following Turkish Airlines’ inaugural flight to Chile. The ceremony was attended by Turkish Airlines executives and Guinness World Records™ officials.
Based on Guinness World Records™ evaluation criteria, Turkish Airlines set the record with flights to 120 countries, reflecting only the active routes of the past 12 months. Nevertheless, including temporarily suspended routes and today’s inaugural flight to Chile, Turkish Airlines’ flight network now spans 131 countries.
Commenting on the record, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ek?i stated, “We are delighted to be in Santiago, Chile, our newest route launched today, and to receive the Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Countries Flown to by an Airline. As the only airline to hold this distinction for over a decade, we proudly showcase the strength of our flight network and reinforce our mission to connect people, cultures, and destinations around the globe.”
Life style
Hermitage opens anew with a treasure trove of art, antiques, collectibles
The legendary Hermitage has moved to a brand-new location at D.M. Colombage Mawatha, Nawala. Barely 200 meters from the main Nawala road, the new Hermitage is extensively stocked with a brand-new collection of hand-picked antique and artisanal furniture, art, collectibles and crafts adding to a treasure trove of ethnic and tribal silver jewellery and jewellery inlaid with coloured semi-precious stones.
The renowned, signature, hand-picked antique and artisanal furniture – with a focus on accents, compliments a stunning collection of silver jewellery and an eclectic, whimsical and sometimes outrageous range of curated collectibles, maps, miniature Indian art, out of print books, vinyls, stamps, old currency, postcards and prints, gift stationery and much more.
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