ABOUT ARTIST

Born in the village of Olaboduwa in the Raigama Korale of Sri Lanka's Western Province, Sampath grew up within a community where daily life was defined by perseverance and craftmanship. Among the farmers and labourers were artists devoted to traditional mask making, ritual dance and spiritual performance.- practices that have shaped the cultural identity of the region for generations.

Once widely practiced, these traditions now survive through only a few families. Economic hardship, lack of recondition and the exploitation of artistic labour have driven many to abandon their craft in search of stability. What remains is a quiet resillience-a determination to hold on to an inheritance that continues to fade from collective memory.

For Sampath, these individuals and their stories embody both beauty and struggle.They are like a lotus pond enduring drought-withering on surface,yet holding within the promise of renewal. Despite poverty and neglect, their spirit endures, seeking light and dignity through the preservation of their art.