Thilak Kaluliyanage enjoys drawing Cabinet Ministers

Friday, 13 June 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

For Thilak Kaluliyanage it is a dream come true and understandably enjoys it very much. He says everyone has talent but only very few make a success of it. A talented artist, Thilak took upon himself a challenge as he wanted to do something new and exhibit his creative work.

“I thought I should do something new in art,” he said about the challenge of doing portraits of Cabinet Ministers. “So far portraits of over 40 ministers have been completed,” said Thilak who is determined to finish the entire list. “In world history no one has done such Cabinet Ministers’ portraits,” he claimed. He uses charcoal pencil imported from Canada for his portraits. He recalled that it wasn’t an easy thing to do, meeting Cabinet Ministers and getting an appointment for this event. Before he started this, he met Minister Champika Ranawaka, and I told him of the challenge he had set himself. Initially Thilak got an appointment to do Minister Ranawaka’s portrait and the latter was very pleased. Having been impressed Minister Ranawaka wrote a letter to all Cabinet Ministers with a recommendation and a request. “I must acknowledge that Minister Ranawaka and his staff as well as those of other Cabinet Ministers whose portraits have been done were very helpful and pleased,” says Thilak. Such portraits are done either at Cabinet Minister’s offices or residences, and in some cases even in Parliament. Thilak also commended the support given by the officials in Parliament. “It was great relief for me, because of I could meet ministers easier than earlier,” said Thilak adding that his portraits take about 20 minutes each.

Thilak said the very experience of the time spent with Cabinet Ministers was inspiring as they also gave quick feedback and suggestions. Thilak hopes to showcase all his portraits at an exhibition in July under the patronage of senior ministers and media personalities. Tracing his origins, Thilak, a student of St. Joseph’s College Grandpass and Isipathana College Colombo 5, said he started his professional career in advertising industry. Grace Ads, Saachi & Saachi, Ribbs N&L and Triad Advertising were among those advertising agencies. He now freelances within the industry. Thilak is also full of praise for Ninehearts Chairman Thilak Godamanne for encouraging him to do his portraits. Veteran cinema actor Kalasoori Sathischandra Edirisinghe was also mentioned for his support and guidance. Thilak also thanked Sahan Ranwala and Kuma Iddamallena for their help.