Colombo’s dynamic art scene shine at the 70th ARTRA Art Trail, featuring modern and contemporary Sri Lankan art across the city and Galle
A coastal city with over half a million residents, Colombo has long been at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s creative scene. The capital was once home to celebrated architect Geoffrey Bawa, the pioneer of tropical modernism known for his clever use of light, space and local materials. In 1943, Colombo also birthed the country’s first modern art collective, the 43 Group, which established Sri Lankan modernism.
Recently, a wave of new galleries, vibrant weekend markets and a young generation of artists has given Sri Lanka’s contemporary art world a fresh edge, making creativity more accessible than ever. Among the highlights is the Art Trail, curated annually by art magazine ARTRA, which will launch its 70th edition during the event taking place from 22 January to 1 February 2026.
Local and international artists, historians, authors and curators will gather for a series of art walks, virtual-reality experiences, workshops and conversations.
“It offers a rare and meaningful platform,” says mosaic artist Rajani Serasinghe, who will attend the trail for the second time. “It’s about being part of a creative community that values our individual voices. It gives me the joy of seeing how art can resonate beyond the studio,” she adds.
The exhibitions, spread across venues in Colombo and Galle, will explore themes of memory, materiality, marginalised identities and resistance, featuring the works of modern and contemporary Sri Lankan artists.
The aim, says ARTRA’s executive director Azara Jaleel, is to trace the evolution of the island’s art scene. “It will outline the ever-evolving character and landscape of Sri Lankan contemporary art, reflecting the sociopolitical context from the 1990s to 2020s,” she explains. artra.lk; @artramagazine
Homegrown artists to watch
Self-taught mosaic artist Rajani Serasinghe transforms discarded glass, ceramic and other materials into striking art. Her 2025 solo exhibition, “Into the Mystique”, drew on Sri Lanka’s landscapes and cultural motifs. @mosaicd_lk
Photographer, artist and curator Kesara Ratnavibhushana’s “Will to Power” exhibition showcases two decades of work exploring power dynamics in nature, humanity, and urban and rural spaces. @kesara_art
Known for her innovative use of materials and colour, artist Chathurika Jayani’s latest collection, Dream Paradise Odyssey, illustrates women’s hope, strength and resilience. @chathurika_jayani_art
