Soul – The spirit of modern man

Artist VikumBandara’s exhibition opens on 22June from 6p.m. at Paradise Road Galleries, 2 Alfred House Road, Colombo 3. The gallery is open daily from 10a.m. to midnight.Following are excerpts from an interview with the artist:

Q: Tell us your inspiration behind these works? 

A: The amazing colours which I use in my paintings inspire my artwork, because I attempt to express current political, economical and social issues through colours.

Q: What is the strongest influence that drives you as an artist?

A: Since my childhood, I loved visual art. When I was studying at the school I identified my talent and creativity. So that artistic talent and creativity inspired me to study visual art. Furthermore during university time I developed my artistic talent and creativity. I think my artistic talent and creativity is the strongest influence that drives me as an artist. 

Q: Do you draw inspiration from international art practices?

A: Yes, I think visual art has an international legacy so I always attempt to update my knowledge. As an artist I sacrifice myself to explore international art trends. Mark Rothko, Jean Michel Basquiat and Georges Braque inspire my artwork. I have studied their art, but I do not imitate them. Although I always study international art trends, I adjust these trends to my own social, political and economic background.

Q: What is your advice to aspiring artists of today?

A: I always believe in the difference between mass communication and artistic expression. I always advice to study art and art history, because it enlightens our minds. If we attempt to depict our own soul without imitating other artists, we will definitely find out real artistic creation.