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Ivan Peries:
A Pioneer of Modern Art in Sri Lanka
July 2023

n the world of art, there are trailblazers who have He began his formal training at the prestigious
an indelible mark on the canvas history. Ivan Government School of Fine Arts in Colombo,
IPeries, a Sri Lankan artist, is undoubtedly one of where he honed his technical skills and
those pioneers. With his distinct style and innovative experimented with various artistic styles.
approach, Peries brought modern art to the forefront During his formative years, Peries was
of Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape. deeply influenced by the works of the European
masters. He immersed himself in the study of
Over the curse of more than five decades Western art history, drawing inspiration from
dedicated to painting, Ivan Peries crafted luminaries such as Cézanne, Gauguin, and
an extensive body of work that stands as a Van Gogh. Their bold use of colour, expressive
testament to his artistic prowess and a significant brushstrokes, and unconventional compositions
contribution to the realm of modern art in resonated with Peries, shaping his artistic
Asia. Renowned for his symbolic and evocative sensibilities and pushing the boundaries of his
landscapes and seascapes, Peries showcased a own creativity.
remarkable ability to manipulate colour and
tone, creating compositions that resonated with After completing his studies in Sri Lanka,
a harmonious quality. Peries embarked on a transformative journey
to Europe, where he was exposed to a diverse
array of artistic movements and avant-garde
Early years: ideas. Settling in London, he enrolled at the
A Creative Spark Ignited prestigious Slade School of Fine Art, where he

Born on February 17, 1921, in the vibrant further refined his craft under the guidance of
city of Colombo, Peries embarked on a lifelong prominent artists and critics.
journey of artistic exploration and self- It was in the vibrant atmosphere of London’s
expression that would captivate audiences and art scene that Peries truly blossomed as an artist.
inspire generations to come. Peries’ early years He embraced the spirit of experimentation and
were steeped in creativity and imagination. embarked on a quest to find his unique artistic
From a young age, he displayed a natural talent voice. Inspired by the modernist movement
for drawing and painting, which caught the sweeping across Europe, Peries began to break
attention of his teachers and peers. Encouraged away from traditional norms and explore the
by his family and mentors, Peries pursued his realm of abstraction. His works from this
passion for art with unwavering determination.