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colours, and experimental techniques into their work. explore new techniques and embrace artistic freedom.
He organised exhibitions and workshops, providing
Peries’ role in the ‘43 group was multifaceted. As a
founding member, he played a crucial role in shaping platforms for artists to showcase their work and engage
the group’s artistic direction and guiding its members in meaningful discussions about the future of Sri Lankan
towards a more innovative and progressive approach art. His passion for art education and his unwavering
to art. His own artistic journey, influenced by his belief in the transformative power of artistic expression
experiences in Europe and his exploration of modernist played a vital role in fostering a vibrant and dynamic
aesthetics, provided a strong foundation for the group’s artistic community within the ‘43 group.
artistic ideology. Furthermore, Peries’ contributions to the ‘43 group
extended beyond his immediate artistic endeavors. He
was an advocate for the recognition and preservation
of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, and he sought to infuse
traditional Sri Lankan symbolism and iconography into
One of Peries’ the modernist language of the group. His works became
significant a visual dialogue between past and present, tradition and
innovation, elevating the cultural identity of Sri Lanka
contributions to
and giving voice to its rich history.
the ‘43 group was
Peries’ legacy within the ‘43 group and Sri Lankan
his exploration of art at large is one of innovation, experimentation,
abstract art. Inspired by the and artistic bravery. His tireless efforts to challenge
the status quo and push the boundaries of creativity
works of European modernists,
helped establish the ‘43 group as a vanguard of artistic
he introduced abstraction
expression in Sri Lanka. His influence extended far
to the Sri Lankan art scene, beyond his own generation, inspiring countless artists to

challenging traditional notions explore new artistic avenues and leave their mark on the
evolving landscape of Sri Lankan art.
of representation and inviting
viewers to engage with art on A Legacy of Inspiration: Nurturing the
a more intuitive and emotional Next Generation of Artists
level. Throughout his career, Peries continued to evolve as
an artist, pushing the boundaries of his own creativity.
He experimented with various mediums, including
printmaking and sculpture, expanding his artistic
One of Peries’ significant contributions to the ‘43 repertoire and delving into new realms of expression.
group was his exploration of abstract art. Inspired by His work became increasingly introspective, exploring
the works of European modernists, he introduced themes of spirituality, identity, and the human condition.
abstraction to the Sri Lankan art scene, challenging Peries’ contributions to the art world were not
traditional notions of representation and inviting viewers confined to his own practice alone. He played a pivotal
to engage with art on a more intuitive and emotional role in nurturing the next generation of Sri Lankan
level. artists, inspiring and mentoring countless individuals
Peries’ commitment to experimentation extended who would go on to make their mark in the art world.
beyond his own practice. As a leading figure within the His passion for art education led him to establish the
‘43 group, he actively encouraged his fellow artists to influential.