Preserving the Artistic Heritage of Sri Lanka

For over 40 years, Jagath Jayasooriya has been at the forefront of preserving and reinterpreting Sri Lanka’s rich artistic heritage. A master of traditional Sri Lankan art, he draws from centuries-old techniques and motifs to create pieces that serve as both contemporary expressions and historical preservation. His work transcends mere craftsmanship—it is a cultural bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the artistic legacy of Sri Lanka is not lost to time.

 

 

A Life Shaped by Art and Tradition

 

Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Jagath’s journey as an artist began in childhood, when he meticulously recreated scenes from local comic books and movie posters. His natural talent was evident early on, earning him an art scholarship at 16 and a place at the prestigious Fine Art University of Sri Lanka—formerly known as Haywood Art Academy. There, he refined his skills and deepened his understanding of Sri Lanka’s artistic traditions, eventually majoring in Traditional Art and Design.

After completing his education, Jagath took on an extraordinary role: he became a traditional art preservationist at the National Museum of Sri Lanka and later collaborated with the National Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. His work involved meticulously copying and restoring ancient paintings and temple murals—many of which were disappearing due to neglect and environmental factors. Over the years, his work became an invaluable archive of Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage, preserving intricate temple frescoes, cave paintings, and traditional motifs that might have otherwise been lost forever.

 

 

The History of Sri Lankan Art and Jagath’s Role in Preservation

 

Sri Lanka's artistic heritage is a tapestry woven with centuries of cultural influences, blending Buddhist, Hindu, and indigenous traditions into intricate forms of visual storytelling. From the 5th-century Sigiriya frescoes to the exquisite Kandyan temple murals, Sri Lankan art has long served as both a spiritual guide and a historical record. These masterpieces, often painted on the walls of temples and palaces, depict scenes from Buddhist scriptures, ancient myths, and royal histories, capturing the island’s deep-rooted spirituality and artistic refinement.

 

A defining aspect of Sri Lankan art is its preservation of Hindu and Buddhist heritage. Many of the country’s oldest paintings, dating back over a thousand years, are found within rock temples, where pigments made from natural minerals were used to depict Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s past lives). Iconic sites such as the Dambulla Cave Temple and the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara are prime examples of this rich artistic tradition. However, due to environmental factors, modernization, and lack of conservation efforts, many of these artworks have faded or been damaged over time.

 

 

Jagath Jayasooriya’s artistry is deeply rooted in Sri Lanka’s temple and cave paintings, many of which date back to the 18th century and earlier. As both a painter and researcher, he has spent decades traveling to archaeological sites, rural temples, and cultural landmarks, meticulously documenting and replicating sacred and historic artworks. His ability to capture the essence of these ancient pieces is a testament to his mastery, allowing him to create contemporary works that preserve the soul of traditional Sri Lankan design.

 

Through his work with the National Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, Jagath has played a crucial role in safeguarding these fading treasures. His efforts to replicate and preserve temple paintings, cave murals, and ancient woodcarvings have saved many from complete erosion and loss. His dedication ensures that the beauty and historical significance of these artworks remain accessible for future generations. Additionally, his archival efforts have uncovered and documented lesser-known temple murals in remote rural areas, capturing their intricate details before they disappeared due to neglect.

 

Through his art, research, and dedication, Jagath has not only kept alive the traditions of Sri Lankan painting but has also ensured that these treasures remain a source of cultural pride and education for future generations.

 

Art as a Cultural Archive

 

Beyond temple murals, Sri Lanka's artistic identity has evolved through centuries of global influence, such as Indian, European, and Middle Eastern traditions. The Dutch and Portuguese colonization periods introduced Western painting techniques, which were later merged with Sri Lanka’s indigenous styles. Today, contemporary Sri Lankan artists, like Jagath, continue to explore this fusion—honoring traditional aesthetics while introducing modern interpretations.

 

Jagath’s work is recognized for more than just historical replication—he is constantly experimenting and evolving. His latest series explores the intersections of Hindu and Buddhist mythology, merging sacred imagery in a way that honors both traditions while offering a new artistic perspective. His depictions of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and the legendary Hanuman reflect his deep understanding of religious iconography and his ability to interpret these stories through a uniquely Sri Lankan lens.

 

The Making of Art: Materials and Process

 

Jagath Jayasooriya’s commitment to craftsmanship extends beyond artistry—his meticulous selection of materials ensures that every piece is designed to stand the test of time. His work is primarily created on wood and canvas, using high-quality materials to preserve the integrity and longevity of each painting.

 

 

His preferred medium—acrylic on aged wood—further deepens the connection between past and present. The old wood panels, carefully selected and seasoned, evoke the timeworn surfaces of ancient temple walls, while his use of acrylic paint allows for a vivid, long-lasting finish. This unique approach ensures that his art retains a sense of antiquity while remaining accessible to modern collectors.

 

 

For his wood-based artworks, Jagath carefully selects durable and historically significant wood types, including:

• Teak wood – Renowned for its strength, resistance to decay, and timeless aesthetic appeal.
• Jack wood – A traditional Sri Lankan wood with a fine grain and natural warmth.
• Gini Sapu wood – Highly valued for its density and ability to hold intricate details.
• Old antique wood – Salvaged and repurposed, adding a sense of history and authenticity to each piece.

 

Once the appropriate wood is selected, it undergoes a specialized treatment process to enhance durability and ensure preservation:

• Bathed in a wood preservative for 24 hours – This step protects the wood from insects, decay, and environmental damage.
• Heated and scorched with flame – This traditional technique enhances the texture, strengthens the wood, and adds a rich, aged character to the surface.
• Sealed with acrylic pigment paint – The final step creates a protective layer, ensuring the artwork remains vibrant and resistant to wear over time.

 

By combining age-old preservation techniques with modern materials, Jagath ensures that each artwork remains a lasting tribute to Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy. His dedication to using authentic materials and time-tested methods is what makes his work truly exceptional.

 

 

Awards, Recognition, and Impact

 

Jagath Jayasooriya’s dedication to traditional Sri Lankan art has not only preserved a rich cultural legacy but has also garnered him numerous national and international accolades. His mastery of Sri Lankan temple and mural art has been recognized by esteemed institutions, solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost preservers of the island’s artistic heritage.

 

Among his most prestigious honors are the four consecutive Presidential Gold Awards (2009–2012) from the National Crafts Council of Sri Lanka for excellence in traditional painting. This national competition, held annually, acknowledges master artisans who have made outstanding contributions to Sri Lankan craftsmanship, celebrating the skill, dedication, and authenticity that define their work.

 

Beyond these presidential awards, Jagath has been featured in several high-profile exhibitions, including:

• A solo temple painting exhibition at the Kandy Museum (1996) – Showcasing his meticulous copies of ancient temple murals, providing insight into the evolution of Buddhist art in Sri Lanka.
• A line drawing exhibition at Allianz Kandy (French Society) (1998) – Highlighting his ability to capture the essence of Sri Lankan cultural motifs through minimalist yet deeply expressive line work.
• A traditional painting exhibition at Lalitha Kala Academy in New Delhi (2012) – Placing Sri Lankan artistry on an international platform, reinforcing its significance in the broader South Asian artistic tradition.

 

Jagath has also worked as a model artist for the National Museum of Colombo (1983–1984), contributing to the museum’s collections and displays. Additionally, his tenure with the National Cultural Triangle (1984–1985) allowed him to engage directly with Sri Lanka’s most historically significant archaeological sites, preserving artworks that might have otherwise been lost.

 

 

His international experience includes serving as an artist in an art gallery in Saudi Arabia (1992–1994) and later in the Maldives (2000–2001), further expanding the reach of Sri Lankan artistic traditions to new audiences.

 

Jagath’s deep commitment to education and mentorship has also been recognized by his role as a member of the George Keyt Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and cultural preservation. Through his teaching and artistic contributions, he continues to inspire a new generation of artists, ensuring that Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy lives on.

 

 

His 40 years of experience in fine arts, combined with his dedication to preserving and sharing the beauty of traditional Sri Lankan painting, make Jagath Jayasooriya a true custodian of culture. His work is not just about creating art but about ensuring that the stories, symbolism, and spirituality of Sri Lanka’s rich artistic heritage remain intact for generations to come.

 

Yet, beyond the awards and exhibitions, Jagath sees his greatest achievement as his role in cultural preservation. Many of the temple paintings and murals he meticulously copied in the 1980s have since faded or been destroyed, making his archive of artwork one of the few remaining records of these priceless cultural artifacts.

 

A Legacy of Art and Awareness

 

Despite his international recognition, Jagath’s primary mission remains the same: to educate and build awareness about Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage. He believes that even among Sri Lankans, there is a lack of understanding of the nation’s vast artistic traditions. His work serves as both an artistic expression and an educational tool, inspiring future generations to appreciate and preserve the ancient craft of Sri Lankan painting.

 

Each of Jagath Jayasooriya’s works is more than just a painting—it is a piece of history, a testament to Sri Lankan artistry, and a bridge between the sacred and the contemporary. Through his dedication, he ensures that these ancient traditions remain not just remembered, but alive and evolving.

 

Discover Jagath Jayasooriya’s handcrafted works and bring a piece of Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy into your collection.