By Kusumanjalee Thilakarathna
10-year-old Chamalka Nethmithu Kumara is a gifted young artist from Baddegama. Amidst many life challenges, Chamalka continues his brilliant artwork.He has participated in many art competitions and has bagged numerous medals and certificates. He recently emerged as the winner of the all island children’s art competition Sithuvili Siththam 2021 organised by the National Child Protection Authority. Multitalented Chamalka is also a writer who has written and illustrated three books and he hopes to publish them in future. He dreams of becoming an art teacher as he loves to teach others the correct techniques of painting.
Chamalka, tell us more about yourself.
My full name is D.V. Chamalka Nethmithu Kumara and I am a grade five student of Christ Church Boys’ College – Baddegama. I am hoping to sit for the grade five scholarship exam this month. I am 10 years old. I live in Baddegama, Galle. My hobbies are drawing, t-shirt painting, and writing stories. I have written and illustrated three storybooks so far. I haven’t published them yet as it’s difficult to find funds to do it. I love to draw and I love to use colours. My dream is to become an art tutor in the future.
What are the storybooks you have written so far?
The first one is named ‘Kuda Simona’ and it’s about a girl who faces an adventure because of an umbrella she received as a gift. The second is ‘Binula’ and it’s about a boy who didn’t take his parents’ advice and faces trouble because of it. I wrote another book – a collection of my personal experiences during the lockdown. I presented it to my school principal.
You have won many art competitions, Chamalka. Who first recognised that you are a very talented artist?
It was my nursery teacher who first said that my drawings are nice. Then it was my grade one teacher Miss Salila. My school art master, Mr. Muthumala was also very happy to see my talent in art. Finally, it is my current art teacher Miss Sanduni Welgama who said I am a talented artist. I participate in her online art classes.
What is your favourite medium to colour your drawings?
My favourite is watercolours. I also like acrylics and pastels.
What is your favourite colour?
Black. I can’t really think of an exact reason why I like black. But black helps with drawing outlines and making a painting complete.
How long have you been painting t-shirts?
Miss Sanduni taught us t-shirt painting last year and it has been my favourite activity since then.
Do you have any tips for those who try t-shirt painting?
You have to first learn how to hold the paintbrush properly and colour within the lines. You have to have a lot of patience to colour. T-shirts take a long time to dry after painting them and you have to patiently wait until it’s completely dry.
Why do you want to become an art teacher in the future?
I love to do art. And I like to teach others how to do wonderful paintings with different colours while teaching them the correct techniques, just like how my teachers help me.
What are your future plans?
I want to write more storybooks and draw more art. I want to hold a solo art exhibition soon. I also plan to publish the storybooks that I have written.
How do you usually spend your day?
These days I study a lot to prepare for my grade five exam. After school, I usually play with my sister. She is only four years old but she is already a good painter. We draw together most evenings.
Chamalka, is there anyone you would like to thank?
I want to thank my parents for always encouraging me. I want to thank all my teachers including Miss Sanduni, Mr. Muthumala, Miss Chrishanthi, Miss Hemanthi, and Miss Salila. I also want to thank my dear principal Mr. Dhammika Priyadarshana and the chief monk of my dhamma school – Keendiela Wijayawardanarama temple. I would also like to thank all the officers of the Baddegama Divisional Secretariat including its Divisional Secretary for always extending support to us.
Chamalka Nethmithu – a gifted artist from Baddegama
16 Jan 2022
Chamalka Nethmithu – a gifted artist from Baddegama
16 Jan 2022
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