Gamini Danwatte Liyanage may not yet be a familiar name to many Sri Lankans, but within German art circles and among discerning art lovers, he is a well-known and highly respected figure.

Gamini left Sri Lanka for Germany in 1978 to pursue his higher education. His formative years were shaped at Isipathana Vidyalaya, Colombo, where he embodied the true spirit of a Pathanian. A committed rugby player, he was a prominent member of the Isipathana rugger team. Beyond the playing field, he was equally visible at school events – always with a sketch pad and pencil in hand. His playful personality, coupled with a natural talent for art, endeared him to both teachers and fellow students.

A few years ago, Gamini returned to his motherland – not merely as a returnee, but as a seasoned and accomplished artist. Watercolour remains his most beloved medium, one with which he performs near-miracles, capturing emotion, light, and movement with remarkable sensitivity.

Over the years, he has held more than 30 successful exhibitions across Germany, including in its capital, drawing thousands of art lovers to his exhibitions. Each showcase has strengthened his reputation as an artist whose work transcends borders and speaks a universal visual language.

Now, at a defining moment in his artistic journey, Gamini is preparing for his maiden art exhibition in Sri Lanka, to be held on February 13, and 14 at the Lionel Wendt Art Centre. The opening ceremony will be on 12th February at 4.30pm and the Ambassador of Germany to Sri Lanka, Dr. Felix Neumann, will grace the occasion as Chief Guest.

The exhibition will feature over 50 paintings, predominantly water colours, presented under the theme “LOVE”. Among them is a work titled Red Rose, which, according to the artist, symbolises the essence of life itself: “You see the true beauty of a flower only when it has fully bloomed. Life is the same—the more mature we become, the more beauty we discover.”

Another painting, Beautiful Life, reflects Gamini’s belief that a fulfilling life begins as a vision within the mind—imagined, nurtured, and ultimately realised.

In fact, the art exhibition LOVE will offer more than watercolour paintings alone. Works created using other techniques, along with selected handcrafted creations, will also be on display, adding depth and variety to the artistic experience.

Born in Padukka, a rural area once surrounded by lush greenery some four to five decades ago, Gamini seems to have inherited an innate artistic sensibility from his natural surroundings—one that continues to resonate through his work today.

February may be the shortest month of the calendar, but witnessing this exhibition promises an experience whose impression will linger far longer – etched gently yet firmly in the hearts of those who attend.