The island state has a rich cultural heritage, characterized by a mix of different cultures, religions, and artistic traditions. The works of art in this exhibition reflect both Sri Lanka’s contemporary challenges and the artistic traditions they have grown out of.
Some artists also express critical views on the difficult political situation in the country. In the title work, Don't measure me, the artist opposes the confines imposed on the individual by the larger society. He is himself the model in the photographs - a protest against the recruitment of young men for war service. The exhibition visualizes and questions contemporary gender roles, mass consumption and violence in an artful way.
The artists use a visual language that is universal. But all art has its own context, created at a certain time, in a certain place. Insight into Sri Lankan society and history deepens our understanding of these works of art.
Social anthropologists Sylvia S. Kasprycki and Doris I. Stambrau have curated the exhibition. Through extensive fieldwork among artists in Sri Lanka, they have examined the historical, social and political basis for Sri Lankan art production. The exhibition was made in close collaboration with many artists and art educators in the country.
