• Chathurika Jayani’s ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ shines at Cinnamon Life

Cinnamon Life, Colombo’s newest resort complex, recently featured artist Chathurika Jayani in its ‘Artist Spotlight’ series for her latest body of work, ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey.’ 

The ‘Artist Spotlight’ series, which highlights the talents of over 687 artists whose works are displayed throughout the Cinnamon Life property, reflects the organisation’s unwavering commitment to promoting Sri Lankan art and fostering the growth of the island’s creative industry. 

Fresh off the debut of this new exhibition, The Sunday Morning Brunch sat down with Jayani for a chat on her art and what inspired her. Known best for her innovative use of materials and exploration of themes such as urbanisation, industrialisation, and female resilience, Jayani’s ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ exhibition is a deeply personal and evocative journey that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.

Being part of the Cinnamon Life ‘Artist Spotlight’ is a moment of pride for Jayani. “It has been a truly remarkable milestone in my artistic journey,” she shared, adding: “It was an incredible opportunity to connect with art enthusiasts and potential buyers. The exhibition itself was breathtaking, with the paintings displayed in such an elegant and impactful manner.”

The exhibition’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Cinnamon Life team and Curator Kasun Jayamanne. Jayani praised their dedication, saying: “The atmosphere throughout the event was vibrant, filled with excitement and joy. I must commend Kasun and the entire Cinnamon Life team for their exceptional efforts in making this event a resounding success.”

The essence of ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’

‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ is a deeply personal collection that chronicles Jayani’s multifaceted journey as a wife, mother, teacher, homemaker, and artist. 

The works in this series are rooted in her earlier collections, such as ‘The Secret Vows’ and ‘Dreamscape,’ but they also represent an evolution in her artistic narrative. The two flags featured in the exhibition, for instance, incorporate elements from ‘The Secret Vows’ series while centring on personal sources of inspiration and aspiration.

“Other works in ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ depict the fragmented cognitive space required by women playing multiple roles; in particular, the optimism, the hopes, and the prayers,” she explained. “My personal yearnings are starkly represented, but my story encapsulates imagination, hope, devotion, and heritage that speak of the optimism and aspirations of young women globally.”

This theme of resilience and hope is a recurring motif in Jayani’s work. Her art not only reflects her personal experiences but also serves as a universal narrative for women navigating the complexities of modern life. Through her bold use of colour and texture, she captures the delicate interplay between the stresses of everyday urban living and the enduring spirit of hope.

One of the hallmarks of Jayani’s work is her innovative use of materials. Her signature mixed-media practice involves unconventional elements such as corrugated board, handmade paper, and threads, which she crafts with needles and gas torch burners. This distinctive approach adds depth and texture to her exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural landscapes.

“Jayani’s signature mixed-media practice is characterised by her bold colours and textures using unconventional materials ranging from corrugated board to handmade paper, threads which she crafts with needles, and gas torch burners,” the exhibition notes highlight. 

This unique technique not only sets her work apart but also underscores her commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.

Celebrating Lankan heritage

Part of Jayani’s ‘Dream Paradise’ series has also been commissioned for the suite rooms at Cinnamon Life, celebrating Sri Lanka’s 25 districts. Each large-scale artwork juxtaposes the unique landscapes, heritage, and people of the island with industrial imagery, creating a powerful commentary on the country’s multifaceted identity.

“By placing these contrasts side by side, Jayani highlights the complexities inherent in the country’s evolution, emphasising the tension between preserving its natural and cultural heritage and embracing progress,” the exhibition notes explain. This duality is a central theme in Jayani’s work, reflecting her deep connection to Sri Lanka’s past, present, and future.

Her large-scale installation in the L24 lobby, part of her ‘Dreamscapes’ series, further explores this theme. Inspired by the corrugated tiling commonly found in Sri Lankan architecture, the installation features geometric and vibrant forms that celebrate the nation’s architectural vernacular. At the same time, it serves as a metaphor for the urbanisation and redevelopment shaping the country.

“The installation, with its playful yet foreboding structures, critiques the rapid pace of construction projects, shedding light on their societal and environmental consequences,” the notes state. “Jayani’s work encourages viewers to consider the legacies left behind by urban expansion, balancing awe for the grandiosity of development with a critical perspective on its ethical and ecological impact.”

A message of hope and resilience

At its core, ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ is a celebration of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of women. Jayani’s work speaks to the universal experiences of balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations, while also offering a poignant commentary on the ethical and environmental costs of development.

“For me, art is the most natural and effective medium to express my thoughts and emotions,” Jayani shared. “Through painting, I can bring to life the vision of the beautiful world I aspire to see. It allows me to communicate my innermost ideas and hopes in a way that words often cannot. Art is not just a profession for me; it is a deeply personal and fulfilling way of life.”

Her advice to young, aspiring artists reflects this philosophy. “My advice to young artists is to remain dedicated and resilient,” she said. “Art requires consistent effort, creativity, and the ability to present your ideas in a compelling way. Above all, perseverance is key. 

“Society often places pressure on individuals to pursue more conventional careers, such as engineering, management, or medicine, and the perception of artists is not always favourable. Additionally, the financial challenges can be significant. 

“It takes immense courage and determination to navigate these obstacles while staying true to your passion for art. However, despite the difficulties, the journey of an artist is ultimately a beautiful and rewarding one. Stay committed to your craft and let your work speak for itself.”

The Cinnamon Life ‘Artist Spotlight’ series rotates every three months, with its commitment to showcasing Sri Lankan talent providing a vital platform for artists like Jayani to share their stories with the world. As Jayani herself put it: “Being part of the Cinnamon Life ‘Artist Spotlight’ has been a truly remarkable milestone in my artistic journey.” 

For art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, ‘Dream Paradise Odyssey’ is an unmissable experience that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s vibrant artistic spirit.