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

period demonstrated a fusion of Western modernist With its vivid palette, dynamic brushstrokes, and skilful
aesthetics and a deeply rooted sense of his Sri Lankan depiction of the figure, this artwork showcases Peries’
heritage. Peries’ painting of this showcased a vivid ability to blend tradition and modernism seamlessly.
palette of colours, dynamic brushwork, and a keen Additionally, ‘Masked Boy’ (1952) stands out as
sense of composition. Through his art, he sought to a striking and enigmatic piece, with its juxtaposition
capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry, of traditional Sri Lankan mask motifs and modernist
blending its lush landscapes, vibrant traditions, and elements. Peries’ artworks continue to captivate viewers
spiritual symbolism with with their boldness, depth,
his modernist vocabulary. and their ability to transcend
His works became a visual boundaries and speak to the
dialogue between tradition universal human experience.
and innovation, reflecting
the evolving identity of a
nation at the crossroads of Shaping Sri Lanka’s
change. Artistic Vanguard
In the early 1949s, a group
Masterpieces: of pioneering Sri Lankan artists
Exploring Form, came together to form the ‘43
Colour and Cultural group, an avant-garde collective
Heritage that would forever transform
the trajectory of Sri Lanka’s art
One of Peries’ most scene. At the forefront of this
celebrated works from this influential movement stood Ivan
period is his masterpiece, Peries, whose artistic prowess
“Reclining Nude.” Painted in and unwavering commitment
1951, the piece is a testament to pushing the boundaries of
to his mastery of form, creativity made him an integral
colour, and composition. In part of the ‘43 group’s legacy.
this painting, Peries depicts His contribution to the group
the human figure in an and his profound impact on Sri
abstract manner, exploring Lankan art cannot be overstated.
the interplay of light and
shadow with a bold and The ‘43 group, named after
expressive brushstroke. The the 43rd anniversary of Sri
work garnered international Lanka’s independence, aimed
acclaim and solidified Peries’ to challenge the conservative
reputation as a pioneering artistic conventions prevalent
force in the world of modern at the time and usher in a new
art. era of artistic expression. Led
by Peries, along with other
With his innovative visionary artists such as George Keyt and Lionel Wendt,
approach and distinctive style, he created several the group sought to break away from the confines of
noteworthy art pieces that have left an indelible on the traditional art and explore new artistic frontiers. They
war world. Another iconic piece by ‘The Flower Vendor’ rejected the prevailing academic style and embraced
(1960), is a vibrant and captivating composition that modernist principles, incorporating abstraction, bold
captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.