Life style
Paul Gauguin up close at SKY GALLERY
by Jomo Uduman
Hot on the heels of the immensely successful “Van Gogh In Sri Lanka” the Fareed Uduman Art Forum is now presenting another Stellar Exhibition – “Gauguin In Sri Lanka” at Sky Gallery from 18thto 27th August. A stunning collection of 45 fine museum quality canvas prints framed in the exact sizes of the originals painted by Paul Gauguin (1848-1903). The Art Forum is dedicated to bringing to the people of Sri Lanka, works of art beyond their reach, including masterpieces of great European painters whose works hang in far-away galleries and museums.
Visitors to the exhibition will be stunned by the glorious colour and the huge sizes of most of Gauguin’s paintings – that have been carefully selected from his period works of Rouen, Paris, Provencal, Martinique, Brittany, Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands. Amongst the magnificent exhibits they can view up close are iconic masterpieces like: “The Yellow Christ”, “When will you marry?”, “What news”, “Two Tahitian Women”, “What! Are You Jealous?”, “Where Are You Going?” “Adam and Eve”, “We shall not go to market today”..
Paul Gauguin is one of the most significant French artists to be initially schooled in Impressionism, but who broke away from its fascination with the everyday world to pioneer a new style of painting broadly referred to as Symbolism. As the Impressionist movement was culminating in the late 1880s, Gauguin experimented with new colour theories and semi-decorative approaches to painting. He famously worked one summer in an intensely colourful style alongside Vincent Van Gogh in the south of France – which lasted nine turbulent weeks. Gauguin’s rejection of his European family, society, and the Paris art world for a life apart, in the land of the “Other,” has come to serve as a romantic example of the artist-as-wandering-mystic.
Gauguin’s naturalistic forms and “primitive” subject matter would embolden an entire, younger generation of painters to move decisively away from late Impressionism and pursue more abstract, or poetically inclined subjects, some inspired by French Symbolist poetry, others derived from myth, ancient history, and non-Western cultural traditions for motifs with which they might refer to the more spiritual and supernatural aspects of human experience. Gauguin ultimately proved extremely influential to 20th-century modern art, in particular that of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque and their development of Cubism. Likewise, Gauguin’s endorsement of bold colour palettes would have a direct effect on the Fauvists, most notably André Derain and Henri Matisse, both of whom would frequently employ intensely resonant, emotionally expressive, and otherwise “un-realistic” colour. In his final decade, Gauguin lived in Tahiti, and subsequently Punaauia, finally making his way to the Marquesas Islands.
Some interesting thoughts from Jomo Uduman, Director of the Fareed Uduman Art forum and SKY Gallery: “There are many who may feel intimidated by art wondering if there is a kind of base level of understanding required to join the conversation. Art can be experienced fully if we stop approaching it with formality and reverence and allow ourselves to interact with it in a spontaneous way. Like with music, we should relax around art, and learn to use it as a constant source of encouragement and support, to get to know ourselves better, and understand our joys and suffering. Above all we must believe in the power of art and help free it from the straitjacket of exclusivity and give it back to all those who love it. The everyday men and women of our land”.
As a young but progressive gallery, SKY will strive to maintain flexibility by also showcasing niche and unconventional art and thus play a significant role in Sri Lanka’s art world by also providing emerging artists with opportunities to exhibit and a platform for creativity and experimentation. This philosophy of course lies grounded in a genuine love for the art community, our culture, and a willingness to shoulder the burdens that artists may face. Sky Gallery welcomes all from near and far in Sri Lanka to visit this incredible and iconic exhibition.
“Gauguin In Sri Lanka” will be up at Sky Gallery of the Fareed Uduman Art Forum, 65/9 Kirula Road Colombo 5, from 18thto 27th August (10am to 5pm daily). Visitors must note that there is a stairway to climb up to the gallery. Contact: 0777329596
Mount Lavinia Hotel, known as “Galkissa Maha Hotalaya had thier “Avurudu Maha Gedara” celebration for the 2025 Sinhala and Tamil New Year. This year’s festivities were spectacular, with the iconic Chef Publis Silva at the helm of the culinary offerings.
The concept of “Avurudu Maha Gedara” – the grand ancestral home where families gather during New Year – perfectly embodies Mount Lavinia Hotel’s role as a cultural cornerstone in the community. Just as in the traditional village “Maha gedara” welcomes extended families, the historic hotel opens its doors to all Sri Lankans and visitors wishing to experience authentic New Year traditions.
“Avurudu Maha Gedara at Mount Lavinia Hotel is more than just a celebration – it’s our way of preserving and sharing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage,” says Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group. “We take pride in creating a space where families and friends can come together to experience the joy and traditions of the New Year in an authentic setting that honors our collective past while creating new memories.”
Grand Kavili Kade opening and Avurudu market
The celebrations kicked off with the grand opening of the Kavili Kade (sweetmeat shop) on Sunday, April 6th at 4:30 PM. Visitors were treated to a vibrant cultural spectacle featuring traditional dancing, music, games, and dramatic performances. Distinguished guests including corporate partners, business associates, ambassadors, and media representatives attended this colorful inauguration.
The hotel’s courtyard was transformed into an eco-friendly Avurudu Market, showcasing special New Year items, homeware, and decorative pieces. Following the grand opening, the Kavili Kade will welcome guests daily from 10 AM to 8 PM until April 13th.
Exquisite Kavili hampers
For those looking to bring the flavors of Avurudu home, Mount Lavinia Hotel has curated three distinctive kavili hampers named after beloved Sri Lankan flora:
The premium Erabadu Hamper – the most comprehensive sweetmeat collection
The Ehela Hamper – a delightful mid-range offering
The Bakmee Hamper ) – a perfect introduction to traditional treats
Each hamper can be delivered directly to your doorstep, making them ideal both for family celebrations and as meaningful gifts during the New Year season.
“Feast of the Nation” – A Culinary Journey Across Sri Lanka
On Avurudu Day, Mount Lavinia Hotel will host its renowned “Feast of the Nation” lunch buffet, celebrating Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary heritage. At , this extraordinary buffet transcends ethnic boundaries, offering a comprehensive journey through the island’s rich culinary landscape. The feast features authentic dishes from every corner of Sri Lanka, bringing together the distinct flavors and cooking traditions that represent the country’s multicultural identity in one magnificent spread.
“The Avurudu celebration at Mount Lavinia Hotel represents the true spirit of Sri Lankan unity,” Dewapura continued. ” Through our traditional foods, we honor the cultural tapestry that makes our nation so special.”
Mount Lavinia Hotel’s “Avurudu Maha Gedara” welcomes Sri Lankans of all ages and backgrounds to experience the rich traditions of the New Year in the magnificent setting of this historic landmark.
For reservations and inquiries, contact Mount Lavinia Hotel at 0112 711 711.
This April, Cinnamon Grand Colombo brings the joyous essence of Avurudu alive with a line-up of delightful culinary experiences, cultural festivities, and memorable moments for the whole family. Here’s how you can celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year with flavour, tradition, and warmth said the press release.
New Year vibes
The release said experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a truly Sri Lankan New Year from 12–15 April 2025, starting from 5 PM onwards at the Lobby.
Watch live demonstrations of traditional sweetmeats being made, like kawum and kokis, and enjoy the rhythmic beats of raban drums as the hotel lobby transforms into a celebration of Avurudu culture.
Lobby – Cinnamon Grand Colombo
12–15 April, from 5 PM onwards
Call +94 11 247 3494 for details
Celebrate Avurudu Tradition and taste at Nuga Gama
On 14 April 2025, step into a truly authentic village-style Avurudu celebration at Nuga Gama. Starting at 8 AM, guests can enjoy a lavish Kavili Table and Lunch Buffet filled with traditional sweets and festive Sri Lankan dishes.
There’ll also be Avurudu games and vibrant activities to keep the whole family entertained.
This Sinhala and Tamil New Year, step away from the ordinary and embrace the spirit of Avurudu at Sun Siyam Pasikudah with the joyous rhythms of tradition, community, and coastal serenity, under the vibrant theme, Festival of the Sun said a press release
Set along the golden shores of Pasikudah, the luxury five-star beach resort transforms into a festive haven where timeless rituals meet joyful recreation. From traditional ceremonies to fun-filled family games, guests are promised an unforgettable experience that captures the heart of Sri Lankan heritage, celebrating the essence of togetherness, gratitude, and renewal release said.
As the sun rises to mark the dawn of the New Year, guests will witness the symbolic milk boiling ceremony—a sacred ritual signifying prosperity and new beginnings. The preparation of the Kavili Mesaya, or traditional sweet table, will follow—featuring a colourful spread of mouthwatering Avurudu treats like kokis, mung kavum, aluwa, and konda kavum. The celebration continues with a ceremonial oil lamp lighting, setting the tone for a day rooted in cultural elegance and island warmth.
The Kids’ Corner is all set to light up with playful delights such as Breaking Balloons and Placing the Eye on the Elephant, promising giggles and memories for the little ones. Families and groups can bond over light-hearted yet lively games including Fill the Bottle by Hand, Sack Races, and the ever-popular Musical Chairs—guaranteed to spark friendly competition and lots of laughs.
For those seeking a thrill, competitive events like Tug of War (Ladies vs Gents), Pillow Fight, and the classic Blindfolded Pot Breaking are sure to bring out the festive spirit in full force.
While the Avurudu festivities steal the spotlight, Sun Siyam Pasikudah continues to charm guests with its signature blend of tropical luxury and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
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