Matara’s legendary batik artist Jezima’s exclusive pop-up at Selyn together with Freedom Hub

Both the fashion set and art lovers in Colombo have a rare opportunity to experience the exquisite batik creations of the under-sung master Batik Artisan Jezima Mohammed on 12 June as Jezima will be showcasing the work of her brand Jez-Look at a vibrant pop-up in Colombo supported by the Freedom Hub Matara and Selyn Foundation at the Selyn Flagship Store at 102 Fife Road, Colombo 5. Now 84, Jezima Mohammed has captivated audiences since 1958 (66 years) with her distinct and detailed designs. Her dedication to the craft, joyous use of colours, and her southern Sri Lankan points of inspiration have earned her district-wide awards, as well as international recognition with showcases in USA (Los Angeles), Germany and Switzerland, and the opportunity to design scarves worn by her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 

This pop-up offers a unique chance for those in Colombo to meet a Sri Lankan artisan legend and acquire one-of-a-kind pieces from the artist herself.

“I have drawn and sewn since I was young, and the word-of-mouth success of it alone has allowed me a longstanding career that has survived the war, COVID lockdown, this economic crisis and much more. I am lucky that news of our work has soken so strongly for itself, that people came and sought us out at our Matara Batik workshop where they can both shop and take classes. “I am thrilled to share my passion for batik with those in Colombo,” says Jezima Mohammed. “Each batik tells a story, and I hope these creations bring joy and beauty to those who experience them.”

The pop-up will feature a curated selection of Jezima’s batik creations, including: Stunning wall hangings and tapestries; Delicate scarves, and vibrant wraparounds, jumpsuits, kaftans and shirts and Other exquisite homeware and decorative pieces.

Selyn is especially delighted to support this event, "Building upon our efforts at Selyn to support Sri Lanka's craft communities, highlighting the creations of this esteemed national treasure serves as a tribute to the enduring beauty and cultural legacy that embody Sri Lanka's artistic heritage."says Selyna Peiris of Selyn.

Freedom Hub in Matara, an initiative of the late Mangala Samaraweera, supports creative enterprise and freedom of expression as pillars of democratic ideals. Mangala, and his late mother Khema were both longstanding supporters of Jezima, and it is his niece and current programme lead for Freedom Hub, Chanchala Gunewardena’s honour to wear Jezima’s saree work at the opening of the inaugural Matara for Arts Festival held this February 2024. In the follow-up to that event, Chanchala felt it imperative that even more people would know and experience Jezima’s work - leading to this upcoming event.

Don’t miss this chance to view and shop the magic of Jezima’s batik firsthand. For details to attend email [email protected] or DM @mataraforarts or @selynfairtrade on Instagram/Facebook