Traditional Arts

Sri Lanka has rich tradition of art and crafts. The skills have been handed down from one generation to another. Different handicraft products are made from wood, bamboo, natural fiber, brass, coconut shell etc. Lacquer products, batiks, lace, costume jewelry, pottery etc are also made in Sri Lanka.
The craftsmen in Sri Lanka specialize in making different types of wooden masks. These masks were once used for treating diseases. They are also used for rituals and in performing arts, dramas etc. Batik works are colorful fabric work. The pattern and style of the batik works are unique. It is kind of a tie and dye work that requires talent and skill. Lace work is another indigenous art in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is also known for jewelry designing. Both Kandyan and Galle tradition are followed in Sri Lanka for designing jewelry. Intricate design in metal is done in Kandyan style and precious stones are used for Galle tradition of jewelry designing. Filigree works are adopted for silver jewelry designing. Expert craftsmen in Sri Lanka prepare ebony elephant from hard wood.
From ancient times, handicrafts are prepared from canes that naturally grow in this country. Another indigenous craft in Sri Lanka is Indikola. Craftsmen make summer hats, purses etc from leaves of date palms known as indikola. A kind of jute like fiber is used to weave dumbara mats in this country. Pottery work is also a traditional craft in Sri Lanka. Lac is used to make jewelry boxes, vases, designer bowls etc.

Sri Lanka’s Traditional Arts: A Journey into Heritage, Craft, and Culture

Sri Lanka’s traditional arts are a mesmerizing blend of cultural heritage, regional diversity, and skilled craftsmanship. From the iconic Kandyan dance forms and expressive woodcarving to the intricate art of mask-making, Sri Lanka’s arts reflect its storied history and unique cultural identity. Travelers drawn to explore this vibrant tradition can experience a rich journey through the island’s ancient artistry and its modern expressions, meeting local artists and witnessing the legacy of centuries-old practices.

This guide dives into Sri Lanka’s traditional arts, highlighting the most captivating art forms, immersive experiences for visitors, and cultural itineraries designed to showcase the richness of this heritage.

1. Discovering Sri Lanka’s Traditional Arts

Sri Lanka’s arts and crafts are rooted in the customs and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. With a diverse history influenced by Buddhist, Hindu, and regional traditions, these arts serve as a mirror to the nation’s past and present. Below are some of the most prominent forms of Sri Lankan traditional arts:

a) Kandyan Dance

Kandyan dance, known for its energetic movements and vibrant costumes, is one of Sri Lanka’s most recognized art forms. Originating in the hill country, this dance is steeped in Buddhist rituals and was historically performed to please the gods. Dancers wear elaborate costumes with colorful fabrics, intricate beadwork, and the characteristic headgear called the ves, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Where to Experience: The city of Kandy offers some of the best performances. The Kandy Lake Cultural Association holds daily shows that provide visitors with a firsthand look at Kandyan dance, drumming, and fire-walking.

b) Wooden Mask-Making

Wooden mask-making is a significant traditional craft in Sri Lanka, especially popular along the southern coast. The masks are used in religious ceremonies, healing rituals, and dance performances, symbolizing characters and deities. Each mask tells a story, with bright colors and exaggerated facial expressions that convey a range of emotions.

Where to Experience: Ambalangoda is the hub of mask-making in Sri Lanka, home to several workshops and the Mask Museum. Visitors can watch artisans carving masks from kaduru wood and painting them by hand, and even try their hand at making a small mask to take home.

c) Batik Art

Sri Lankan batik art, inspired by the dyeing traditions of Indonesia, has become a distinct local art form. Batik involves drawing designs on fabric with wax, then dyeing the cloth, with the wax preserving parts of the fabric’s original color. The result is vibrant, intricately designed clothing, wall hangings, and decorative items.

Where to Experience: Batik shops in Galle, Colombo, and Kandy offer demonstrations and even short workshops where visitors can learn the basics of batik art. Many of these studios are family-run, adding a personal touch to the experience.

d) Traditional Puppetry

Puppetry, known locally as rukada, has deep roots in Sri Lankan folk culture and is often performed during festivals and ceremonies. The puppets are handcrafted from wood and brightly painted, depicting characters from Sri Lankan folklore and Hindu mythology. Puppeteers control the puppets with strings, skillfully animating their movements to tell traditional tales.

Where to Experience: The Puppetry Museum in Balapitiya provides an insightful look into this art form. The museum hosts regular performances, and visitors can learn about the cultural significance of these wooden figures.

e) Pottery and Ceramics

Sri Lankan pottery, dating back to ancient times, is both functional and decorative. Traditional clay pots, figurines, and decorative items are shaped by hand, often decorated with motifs inspired by nature and cultural symbols.

Where to Experience: The town of Molagoda, near Kandy, is renowned for pottery. Visitors can explore potters’ workshops, try shaping their own clay pot, and buy unique handmade pieces as souvenirs.

f) Drumming and Percussion

Drumming holds a central place in Sri Lankan music and dance, with various types of drums used for religious ceremonies, festivals, and cultural performances. The geta bera drum, used in Kandyan dance, is especially famous. Each drumbeat is more than just rhythm; it is a narrative that connects the audience to the traditions and spirit of Sri Lanka.

Where to Experience: The Kandy Esala Perahera, held annually, features grand drumming performances as part of its procession. Cultural centers in Kandy and Colombo also offer demonstrations.

2. Hands-On Experiences and Art Tours

To truly appreciate Sri Lanka’s traditional arts, travelers can participate in hands-on workshops, explore art villages, and witness live performances. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to interact with artisans, learn about traditional techniques, and even create their own artworks.

a) Artisans’ Village in Colombo

This village offers visitors an immersive introduction to Sri Lanka’s diverse crafts. Here, travelers can observe artisans working on wood carvings, batik, pottery, and textile weaving. The village regularly hosts workshops, allowing visitors to try a craft themselves.

Experience Highlight: Participate in a batik workshop where you can create your own design with wax and dye, guided by a master craftsman.

b) Mask-Making Workshop in Ambalangoda

The town of Ambalangoda, famous for mask-making, offers workshops where visitors can observe the entire mask-making process, from carving the wood to painting intricate designs. These workshops are perfect for those who want to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s folklore and spiritual traditions.

Experience Highlight: Create a small mask as a personal memento, gaining insight into the symbolism behind each character.

c) Traditional Dance Class in Kandy

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can attend a dance class in Kandy to learn some basic Kandyan dance movements. These classes provide a firsthand experience of the discipline, energy, and cultural pride that define Kandyan dance.

Experience Highlight: Wear a traditional Kandyan costume and learn a short dance routine, accompanied by traditional drumming.

d) Pottery Workshop in Molagoda

Molagoda is one of Sri Lanka’s pottery capitals, where visitors can join potters at work and learn the basics of shaping clay. This hands-on experience is a relaxing and rewarding way to connect with Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.

Experience Highlight: Shape your own clay pot, guided by local potters, and understand the ancient techniques used in Sri Lankan pottery.

3. Traditional Arts in the Market: Where to Shop

Visitors looking to take a piece of Sri Lanka’s art home will find an array of options in local markets. Sri Lanka’s artisan markets showcase everything from hand-painted masks and batik clothing to jewelry and pottery.

a) Colombo’s Pettah Market

Pettah Market is a bustling place to shop for a variety of handcrafted items. From wooden carvings and batik fabrics to jewelry, the market is filled with unique finds that represent Sri Lankan art.

b) Galle Fort Art Shops

Galle Fort has become a popular hub for art and handicraft shops, offering everything from contemporary art to traditional crafts. Batik and handmade jewelry are particularly popular here, with many shops owned by local artists.

c) Kandy’s Handicraft Center

Kandy’s handicraft center offers a wide selection of locally made items, including wood carvings, masks, and woven textiles. It’s a perfect place to shop for authentic souvenirs while supporting local artisans.

d) Ambalangoda Mask Shops

For traditional Sri Lankan masks, Ambalangoda is the best place to shop. The town is home to family-run workshops and stores where visitors can purchase handcrafted masks with authentic designs.

4. Suggested Itineraries for Art and Culture Enthusiasts

3-Day Traditional Art Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Colombo and visit the Artisans’ Village. Participate in a batik workshop and explore the Pettah Market.
Day 2: Travel to Kandy to watch a Kandyan dance performance. Spend time at Kandy’s handicraft center and visit nearby wood carving workshops.
Day 3: Journey to Ambalangoda for a mask-making workshop, where you can witness the entire process and make your own mini mask.

5-Day Arts and Heritage Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, visiting the Artisans’ Village and Pettah Market for crafts and souvenirs.
Day 2: Travel to Kandy to experience Kandyan dance, visit the Temple of the Tooth, and explore local workshops.
Day 3: Head to Molagoda for a pottery-making workshop, experiencing the traditional art of pottery firsthand.
Day 4: Continue to Ambalangoda for a full-day mask-making experience, learning about Sri Lanka’s folklore and art traditions.
Day 5: Conclude in Galle, exploring art shops within Galle Fort and attending a batik demonstration.

5. Preserving Sri Lanka’s Art Heritage

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in preserving Sri Lanka’s traditional arts. Many artisans rely on tourism for their livelihoods, and by purchasing authentic handicrafts and supporting workshops, visitors contribute to the sustainability of these art forms. Traditional arts have also been incorporated into modern practices, blending heritage with contemporary aesthetics to appeal to new generations while preserving cultural roots.

Sri Lanka’s traditional arts offer travelers a profound glimpse into the island’s cultural identity. Through exploring artisan workshops, attending dance performances, and shopping in local markets, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant artistry of Sri Lanka.