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Kunst og samfunnsendring

The younger generation of Sri Lankan artists critically and often ironically address the challenges of present-day experience. More than just an expression of artistic ambition, their works reflect a search for personal and cultural identity between tradition and modernity.

Central themes in their body of work are the economic and socio-political consequences of globalization: urbanization and city life, the change of values in consumer society, or the influence of Western pop culture on the role models of the youth. The effects of globalized markets on local work conditions and everyday life are critically examined. One example is the predominantly female work force in garment factories, another one the impact of advertising and the media on beauty ideals, body politics, sexuality, and gender roles.

In dealing with these issues, the artists draw inspiration not only from the universal visual language of the present – e.g., graffiti in poverty-stricken marginalized urban areas – but also from their cultural tradition. Ritual dance costumes and masks receive contemporary expression through the use of modern materials and electronics.

Bildet kan inneholde: motorkjøretøy, transportmiddel, bildekk, vei, bildesign.
Nishantha Hettiarachchi. Threewheelers. Installation. 2005. Photo: Thushantha Rathnayake

 

Published Jan. 21, 2021 12:05 PM - Last modified Nov. 24, 2021 2:33 PM

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