The interior of Paradise Road Galleries testifies to one thing. That the creator and visionary of this place is without doubt a lover of art and design. Paradise Road Galleries opened by Shanth Fernando, the founder of the Paradise Road brand, allows Sri Lankan artists of recognition to exhibit their works. It is a place extraordinaire, with the single largest collection of Belgian artist, Saskia Pintelon’s collection on display along with those of eminent artists of the famed ‘43 Group’, which included George Keyt, Lionel Wendt, Harry Pieris, Justin Deraniyagala, Ivan Pieris and the likes. The concept surrounding Paradise Road Galleries has successfully nurtured artists who have gone onto earn international fame and hence been a launching pad for talented painters.
Colombo’s galleries aren’t just a platform for art in the traditional sense – you’ll find musical theatre productions, private dinners, fashion concept stores and all manner of other expressions of creativity. The National Art Gallery is the most well-known space and is home to a number of permanent exhibitions, whereas Paradise Road Galleries has a much more contemporary feel as well as housing collections from international artists. To see local artists live in action, take a walk on the nearby Boardwalk, or for more refined pieces check out the Saskia Fernando Art Gallery. Whichever you choose to visit, you’ll enter a world of colour and learn more about Sri Lanka’s creative culture.