The 31st annual ‘International Children’s Art Competition,’ organised by the IE-NO-HIKARI Association of Japan in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education, Cultural, Sports, Science, and Technology received a remarkable 11,135 entries from children in 62 countries.
The IE-NO-HIKARI Association is known for its dedication to rural village culture, publishing the IE-NO-HIKARI magazine and organising cultural events. Since 1993, they’ve hosted the ‘International Children’s Art Competition’ to foster friendships, understanding, and growth among young artists worldwide.
This year, Sri Lanka has a reason to celebrate. K.A. Suvidu Nithish, a Grade 4 student at Galle Vidyaloka Vidyalaya, bagged the Gold Medal for his captivating artwork titled ‘Tusker Family.’
The Sunday Morning Little Stars recently interviewed Suvindu about his win and his dreams for the future. Look out for the interview excerpts to learn more about this talented young artist.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Suvidu Nithish. I go to Vidyaloka Vidyalaya in Galle and live in Bataduwa, Galle. I am nine years old and live with my mother. I love drawing and I’m also a swimmer who has competed in many competitions.
Since when do you draw?
I have been drawing since Grade 1. I am in Grade 4 now. I am learning drawing at school and I also go to a class in Unawatuna taught by Piyasena Silva.
What is your favourite medium for drawing?
My favourite medium is pastel. It’s easy to use and I like it.
Do you have any other hobbies?
Yes, I have a few other hobbies. I enjoy making different objects using clay, such as dolphins, various animals, and humans. I learned this skill by watching tutorials on YouTube. Additionally, I like to read books. I don’t watch television, so I spend a lot of my free time either reading or working with clay.
How did you get to know about the Japan Art Competition?
I got to know about it through the internet. For the competition, I drew a family of tuskers. I thought it would be nice to draw a family of tuskers since it’s a special view of Sri Lanka.
How did you feel when you got to know you won?
I was very happy.
Have you participated in any other competitions?
Yes, I have participated in many competitions, including recent ones. I won an award at the ‘Annual Child Art Creations’ organised by the Sri Lanka Medical Association in 2023, with the theme ‘What Makes Me Happy.’ I also received the ‘Arunalu Sithuwam Excellence Award’ for the Primary Category recently. Most of these competitions are introduced to us by the Sri Lanka Children’s Art Center in Unawatuna, Galle, by our teacher, Piyasena Sir.
I was recently notified that I am receiving another international award. It was just announced, and I will share more information once I get confirmation.
What is your ambition?
I want to be an artist and also become a sculptor. I have a strong passion for creating art, whether it’s through drawing or sculpting with clay. I aspire to refine my skills and perhaps one day showcase my work in galleries. Additionally, I want to explore different mediums and techniques, continuously learning and growing as an artist.
Is there anything specific that you like to draw?
Yes, my favourite theme to draw is me and my mother.
Sounds like you share a special bond with your mother?
Yes, indeed. My mother is incredibly supportive of everything I do. She encourages and believes in me, which motivates me to pursue my passions and dreams.
Is there anyone you need to thank?
Yes, I want to thank my Amma, my art teacher Piyasena Silva, and all my teachers and friends. They’ve all been supportive and encouraging.