Experience Overview

Masks are used more for performance and ritual in modern day Sri Lanka but their past is rooted in ancient beliefs and the ideology that they have healing and protective powers. Learn the fascinating and age-old techniques from your host in Kolam where masks are usually made from a light wood called “Kaduru”. You can choose the experience as per your preference, to carve or paint masks only or carve and paint at the same time which will get your hands on an exclusive craftsmanship. Your host has always been involved in crafts, beginning with his parents who worked in the batik industry in his hometown of Ambalangoda. Before crafting, he learnt traditional Sinhala motifs and ornamental styles adopted in the arts at college and initially was interested in creating and painting masks in his own style.