Shimara Fernando

This artwork is a vibrant celebration of growth, femininity, and renewal. A serene female figure lies adorned with radiant blossoms in hues of red, yellow, and blue, symbolizing vitality and the beauty of transformation. The fluttering butterflies surrounding her add a sense of movement and life, representing freedom and the fleeting yet precious moments of change. The pastel background gently blends into the composition, offering a dreamy and harmonious atmosphere. This artwork invites you to embrace the cycles of nature and the joy of flourishing into one’s fullest self.

A blend of “harmony” and “float,” symbolizing balance, tranquility, and the celebration of body positivity. The artwork depicts a confident figure reclining on a vivid red kayak, effortlessly floating atop rippling blue waters under the embrace of lush greenery. The composition radiates harmony through its bold contrasts and fluid textures, inviting you to embrace stillness and the beauty of individuality. This piece is a tribute to body positivity and the quiet strength found in moments of rest, symbolizing the unity of nature, self, and peace.

Negombo Beach is more than just a depiction of Sri Lanka’s western coastline—it is a heartfelt tribute to my childhood. Growing up in Negombo, the sandy shores and gentle waves were the backdrop to countless cherished memories, from playing along the beach to watching the sun dip into the horizon. This artwork captures not only the natural beauty of the place but also the emotions tied to those tender moments of innocence and joy. Through soft hues and delicate strokes, I aim to evoke the serenity and nostalgia of a place that holds a special piece of my heart.

Inspired by the quiet dignity of Buddhist monks, cloaked in traditional saffron robes symbolizing wisdom and purity. This piece reflects a moment of introspective calm, drawing from the rich spiritual heritage of Buddhist monks.

In this artwork, two koi fish gracefully swim through the calm waters of a serene pond, their vibrant colors mirroring the peaceful flow of life. The fluidity of their movement symbolizes the delicate balance between strength and tranquility, while the pond’s ripples reflect the harmony of nature. This piece invites you to embrace the beauty found in stillness and the quiet unity of the world around us.

This vibrant artwork captures the essence of serene island life, where the tall coconut trees stand gracefully against a lively, colorful backdrop. The vivid hues of the sky and the lush greenery evoke a sense of tranquility and the carefree beauty of coastal landscapes, inviting you to immerse themselves in the tropical bliss of nature.

Banana trees are a quintessential part of Sri Lankan households, especially in coastal and rural areas. Known for their lush green leaves and vibrant yellow fruit, they symbolize prosperity and nourishment. This artwork captures the colorful essence of the banana tree, reimagining its beauty in vivid hues. In Sri Lanka, banana leaves are often used in traditional cooking, while the fruit is a staple in daily meals and rituals. This tree stands as a testament to the island’s sustainable lifestyle and the deep bond its people share with nature.

This vibrant artwork celebrates the majesty of elephants, a cultural symbol deeply woven into Sri Lanka’s traditions and festivals. Using a dot art technique, the piece showcases a kaleidoscope of colors, reflecting the decorative grandeur of elephants in the Esala Perahera, an iconic Buddhist procession in Kandy. Elephants are revered in Sri Lankan culture as sacred animals, symbolizing wisdom, strength, and protection. The intricate patterns and bold hues in this piece echo the ornate adornments of ceremonial elephants, capturing their elegance and cultural significance while offering a modern, playful interpretation.

This stunning artwork captures the elegance of a traditional Kandyan bride, a cultural icon in Sri Lanka. The bride is adorned in the Kandyan saree, known as the “osariya,” a timeless attire combining modesty and grace with intricate draping. Central to the bridal look is the ceremonial jewelry, including the seven necklaces, symbolizing prosperity and blessings, and the “sun and moon” hair ornaments, which represent eternity and protection in Sinhala-Buddhist culture. The intricate details of the saree blouse, delicately hand-embellished with lace and gold patterns, along with the bouquet of native flowers, further reflect the rich artistic heritage of Sri Lanka. This painting beautifully showcases the harmony of tradition and artistry, paying homage to the island’s cultural opulence.

The artwork “Lechchami” elegantly bridges tradition and modernity by portraying a Sri Lankan brown woman adorned in a detailed saree and intricate jewelry, embodying the grace and cultural richness of Sri Lankan heritage. Historically, women in Sri Lanka have celebrated their identity through vibrant sarees and elaborate ornaments, symbolizing beauty, dignity, and status. The inclusion of a birthmark on her chin adds a personal and realistic touch, highlighting individuality within cultural norms. The modern twist of sunglasses juxtaposes tradition with contemporary flair, creating a unique narrative that celebrates the timeless elegance of Sri Lankan women while embracing modern self-expression.

The artwork inspired by the cherished Sri Lankan children’s song “ Tikiriliya” offers a modern interpretation of this traditional tune, which has long been a staple in Sri Lankan folk culture. The song playfully describes a young girl, often likened to a blossoming flower, reflecting the island’s deep appreciation for beauty, nature, and simplicity. Traditionally sung in playful or educational contexts, “Tikiriliya” carries a lighthearted charm that resonates with childhood memories across generations. This updated rendition transforms the classic into a vibrant, contemporary visual, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity while celebrating Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.

This artwork captures the essence of subtle yet profound energy found in the everyday moments around us. The artwork intertwines soft, fluid strokes with bursts of color, evoking the sensation of quiet whispers carried on the wind. Each hue tells a story of its own, blending together to create a harmonious symphony of emotions that resonate with the viewer. The piece invites contemplation, encouraging a deeper connection to the beauty of simplicity and the rich, unseen currents of life that pass us by, often unnoticed yet deeply felt.