Friday Feb 06, 2026
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Friday, 6 February 2026 04:51 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Sri Lanka’s renowned open-air art fair, Kala Pola, is set to bring alive the streets of Colombo with colour, creativity, and conversation as Kala Pola returns for its 33rd edition on 8 February, along Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha (Green Path), Colombo 7.
Conceptualised and introduced by The George Keyt Foundation in 1993, and sponsored and co-presented by the John Keells Group through an unbroken patronage since 1994, Kala Pola has grown into a cultural landmark that continues to reshape how visual art is showcased and experienced in Sri Lanka.
Remaining true to its founding philosophy, the event is proudly uncurated, providing participating artists and sculptors with the opportunity to showcase their talent, connect with art enthusiasts, learn from and network with other artists, and expand their clientele.
Kala Pola displays a broad variety of forms and styles, ranging from intricate sculptures, humorous caricatures, and abstract paintings to modern and traditional Sri Lankan art. Attracting art lovers, collectors, connoisseurs, and students from all parts of the country and tourists from various parts of the world, the event creates a vibrant, welcoming, and wholesome atmosphere spurred by music, camaraderie, art discussions, children’s art workshops, and an array of cultural performances.
As a longstanding and iconic visual art flagship amidst Sri Lanka’s vibrant calendar of arts and cultural events, Kala Pola continues to stand as a unique open-air platform for visual expression. By bringing together both established and emerging artists in an inclusive, uncurated setting in the heart of Colombo, the event fosters meaningful connections between creators and audiences, offering accessibility, diversity, discourse, and a shared appreciation for art among a wide cross-section of the public, while spurring the creative economy of the country.
Nations Trust Bank (NTB) also supports Kala Pola as its Official Banking Partner.
Arts falls within the focus area of ‘Social Health and Cohesion,’ which is one of the four focus areas of John Keells Foundation (JKF) – the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) entity of John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH).
