• Uditha Rangana on reviving Sri Lanka’s lost art through tattoos

In a cosy studio adorned with an eclectic mix of traditional Sri Lankan motifs and contemporary tattoo designs, The Daily Morning Brunch met with Soul Ink Studio founder Uditha Rangana, a pioneering tattoo artist who has dedicated his craft to reviving and preserving Sri Lanka’s dying temple art. His journey is a fascinating blend of personal passion, cultural rediscovery, and artistic innovation, set against the backdrop of a country rich in history but often disconnected from its own heritage.

Uditha’s interest in tattooing traces back to his school days, when he was enamoured with the cool tattoos of musicians like Limp Bizkit and other rock icons. “I used to draw tattoos on my arms and friends’ arms,” he recalled with a nostalgic smile.

His casual hobby took a serious turn during his time in India. Encouraged by his then-girlfriend and inspired by a Nepalese tattoo artist using handmade machines, Uditha began designing tattoos. His uncle, recognising his potential, bought him his first tattoo machine, setting Uditha on a path that would eventually intertwine with Sri Lanka’s ancient art forms.

Bridging the old and the new

Uditha’s early work was influenced by Western tattoo styles, but a pivotal shift occurred about nine years ago. “I always wanted to do original artworks that meant something to people,” he explained. This desire led him to explore traditional Sri Lankan art, particularly the intricate designs found in temples and ancient texts. His first significant traditional tattoo was a Naga Murugan, a protective deity often depicted at temple entrances.

The process of incorporating these historical designs into his work was neither quick nor easy. Uditha spent years researching and studying under a teacher who specialises in traditional Sri Lankan art. “Authenticity is crucial,” he emphasised. “What I do now is a true representation of our heritage, and is not just inspired by it.”

Promoting traditional Sri Lankan tattoo designs in a society that often favours trendy, Western-inspired tattoos is a formidable challenge. “Changing people’s mindsets is the hardest part,” Uditha admitted. The local market for original art is small, and many Sri Lankans are more familiar with foreign tattoo styles than their own cultural heritage.

However, there’s a growing appreciation for his work among Sri Lankans living abroad. “When they are away from home, they want to represent their culture,” Uditha noted. His designs, rooted in Sri Lankan tradition, resonate with these expatriates who seek a deeper connection to their roots.

A tattoo renaissance

The art of tattooing is not new to Sri Lanka, but its cultural significance has waned over the years, largely due to colonisation and changing societal values. Uditha’s mission is to revive this art form and reintroduce it to a modern audience. “It’s a dying art, and people don’t see it on skin anymore,” he lamented. Yet, there’s a burgeoning interest in tattoos among the younger generation, creating a fertile ground for this cultural revival.

Tattooing, for Uditha, is more than just an art form; it’s a way to revive and preserve Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. “When people see my tattoos, they appreciate the history and meaning behind them,” he said. This appreciation is especially strong among international tattoo artists, who often have a deeper understanding of traditional art forms than their Sri Lankan counterparts.

Creating a traditional Sri Lankan tattoo involves extensive research and a deep understanding of the art form. Uditha spends hours at museums, studying ancient artefacts and temple murals. His teacher guides him in mastering the nuances of traditional designs, ensuring that every tattoo he creates is authentic.

“Traditional art is very versatile,” Uditha explained. “It can be adapted to various forms and mediums, whether it’s a wall, a piece of clothing, or a human body.” This adaptability allows Uditha to balance artistic freedom with historical accuracy, creating tattoos that are both beautiful and meaningful.

The tattoo industry in Sri Lanka

Tattooing in Sri Lanka is still in its nascent stages compared to other countries. “We’re behind in terms of techniques and applications,” Uditha observed. While tattoo cultures in places like Japan and Thailand have long-standing traditions and established standards, Sri Lanka’s tattoo industry is still finding its footing. However, there’s a silver lining. “It’s booming now,” Uditha said, noting an increasing interest and appreciation for tattoos, especially those that reflect Sri Lankan culture.

Uditha plays a significant role in mentoring the next generation of tattoo artists. He teaches them not only the technical skills but also the importance of creativity and cultural appreciation. “Most people get into tattooing because it’s cool,” he noted. “But it’s essential to understand the emotions and heritage behind the art.”

Currently, Uditha does not take on many apprentices, preferring to focus on quality over quantity. He exposes his mentees to traditional Sri Lankan art and encourages them to incorporate these elements into their work. “It’s about bringing up their creativity and interest in our culture,” he explained.

Growth and expansion

Building a sustainable business model in the tattoo industry is challenging, especially in Sri Lanka. Uditha credits his partner for helping create a system that supports the studio’s growth. “I was just going with the flow,” he admitted. “But now, we have a proper plan, and it’s working.”

Expansion is on the horizon for Uditha’s studio, with plans to open additional branches in Sri Lanka. This growth is a testament to the increasing popularity and acceptance of traditional Sri Lankan tattoos.

Looking ahead, Uditha hopes to see a greater appreciation for traditional Sri Lankan art among the younger generation. “Currently, they have zero idea about it,” he said. His advice to aspiring tattoo artists is to immerse themselves in their culture and understand the value and complexity of traditional art.

Uditha’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. Through his tattoos, he is not only reviving a dying art but also creating a new generation of Sri Lankans who appreciate and take pride in their rich history.

Uditha’s work is a blend of passion, cultural pride, and artistic excellence. His dedication to preserving traditional Sri Lankan art through tattoos is inspiring, offering a unique way to connect the past with the present. As he continues to mentor young artists and expand his studio, Uditha is not just creating beautiful tattoos; he is reviving a cultural legacy and ensuring that Sri Lanka’s rich heritage is celebrated for generations to come.