Art @ Mount Havana
Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Gampola's Artistic Legacy
The canvases at Mount Havana include the Sooriyagoda and GadaladenIya temples and Ambekke Shrine off Pilimathalawa; Bak-Mee Tree in Subadraramaya Temple near Balapitiya, Galle; Gane Viharaya, Ganegoda Shrine in the Southern Province and the Dambulla Temple.
Channa Ekanayake, an artist, believes that Kandyan art stands out because of its use of natural colors and detailed, decorative designs. The colors are often sourced from natural elements like earth and trees, giving the art an organic feel. Additionally, Kandyan art features highly stylized imagery, meaning the figures and objects are depicted in an exaggerated and artistic way rather than looking realistic. The artwork is also known for its intricate and elaborate decorations.
About the Artist
The paintings of Channa Ekanayake are multi-faceted. Having always felt one with nature, he studied
Botany and natural sciences. An ardent traveler, Channa was on a mission to reforest lost trees
in public places. He is able to identify trees with a single glance, as a result of his keen interest in the
field. As a devoted animal lover, Channa practices ‘Maithri’ and is a proponent of equality for all.
Having always painted as a hobby, Channa began pursuing art as a profession in the early 1990s. His first
major exhibition. ‘Dwellings’, held in 2001. consisted of meticulously detailed doors, windows and
places of abode. Channa believes that his artistry does not remain static and constantly evolves and
changes over the years. He uses oil and acrylic on canvas and watercolor and soft pastel on paper, and is
an advocate of minimalist paintings.
His passion for nature has enabled him to draw the intricate details of trees, landscapes and animals. Channa
also over the wildlife, flora, fauna and greening practices in our estate.