‘Colombo–Malé’: Sri Lankan and Maldivian artists unite in contemporary painting exhibition

A vibrant celebration of artistic collaboration between Sri Lanka and the Maldives is underway at the National Art Gallery of the Maldives, where the contemporary painting exhibition ‘Colombo–Malé’ opened on 10 September 2026. The exhibition, which runs until 17 September, brings together leading artists from both countries, offering audiences a rich exploration of diverse styles, themes, and visual expressions.

The initiative was spearheaded by renowned Maldivian artist Husen Ali Manik, in collaboration with the High Commission of Sri Lanka and the National Art Gallery of the Maldives. Works on display include paintings by Sri Lankan artists Sarath Gunasiri Perera, T.P.G. Amarajeewa, K.D. Lakshman, and Chaminda Gamage, alongside Maldivian artists Afzal Shaafiu, Ahamed Anil, Ahameed Azmee, and Hussain Ali Manik.

The opening ceremony on 10 September drew wide participation, including Maldivian government officials such as MP Ahmed Xamyr, Chairman of the Maldives–Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Group, and State Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Mohamed Ikram. Members of the diplomatic corps, Sri Lankan and Maldivian artists, members of the Sri Lankan community, and art enthusiasts also attended.

Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, Mohamed Rizvi Hassen, emphasized that the exhibition was not only an opportunity to appreciate contemporary art but also a celebration of the longstanding cultural and artistic ties between the two nations. He noted that the platform allows artists to share their perspectives, experiences, and creative expressions, strengthening mutual understanding through art.

The exhibition remains open to the public until 17 September 2026, and plans are already underway to bring ‘Colombo–Malé’ to Sri Lanka. The High Commission of Sri Lanka has expressed its intention to collaborate with Sri Lankan and Maldivian artists to showcase the exhibition locally, thereby expanding cultural exchanges and enabling Sri Lankan audiences to experience the richness of Maldivian artistic practices. (Newswire)

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