Priyantha Udagedara – Orientalism.

Priyantha Udagedara’s latest show, Orientalism, is now open at the Saskia Fernando Gallery. At first glance his work appears highly decorative, and the aesthetic force doesn’t fade as you look twice, and then again, but the closer you go, a wealth of detail begins to emerge that point at bigger ideas in operation.

Hanuman and the Dragon, 2017

‘Orientalism’ is heavily influenced by Udagedara’s interest in Edward Said. Whose seminal book of the same name reassigned the meaning of this word, which was previously used to describe a branch of legitimate study into the ‘orient’ (or everything East of Europe).

Said exposed how this discipline effectively exoticized, othered and constructed a reality of the East which made it easier to categorize, understand and colonize by Western powers. Though Said's work was more specific to Arab cultures, his theories provide a framework that allows us to unpack power, knowledge, representation and imperialism in virtually any context.

Redefining Paradise I, 2017

Working in the beginning of the twenty first century, in a Sri Lanka now under neo-colonial influence not just from the classical West, but also China, India and other imperialist powers, Udagedara wants to question if the gaze upon the Orient, as turned upon this Island today, is still the old gaze of colonial times. ‘How is Sri Lanka seen through the eyes of the globalized, multi-polar imperialist lens of today?’ Is the question, or one of the questions, he seems to be asking.

This series is rife with intricately crafted symbolism. The closer you go, the more you see. His travels in China have been an obvious influence in Redefining Paradise I, a huge 6 piece canvas. And Where is Hanuman? vaguely invokes images of mythic India.

Where is Hanuman? 2017

What I found interesting was to first look at a piece from a distance, allowing it to give me a sense of a certain cultural stereotype, and then go closer to explore exactly why I felt this. The cultural stereotypes embedded in his works, revealed after first drawing the viewer through a vision of an exotic paradise (a recurring theme for Udagedara) feels like a tactic that forces the viewer to undergo the process of exoticizing something themselves, resuting in a feeling of slight shame when one realizes what has happened. 

Other symbols are purposely obscured, by the all consuming motifs of the exotic fauna he loves to use. This being contemporary art, a lot of it is open to interpretation. You start with a broad theme and the product of the artist's imagination, and then try and get a sense of what the work seems to be telling you, appreciating the tangential thoughts it provokes as a part of the experience, at least that's how I'd go about it.

The works are for sale, check with the gallery for a full list and prices. But even if you're not buying, the show is on until January 6, 2018, free and open to the public. I fully recommend taking advantage of this and dropping in for a look. 

Before you go, read Sandev's essay on the show for more context.

The Saskia Fernando Gallery is located at 41 Horton Place. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Dampa Seafood: Where seafood dreams come true!

Are you ready for a culinary journey that captures the essence of the ocean? Look

Highlights Kamu

An unforgettable brunch celebration at Harbour Court, The Kingsbury.

The Ambience From the hotel entrance to our designated seat, a vibrant atmosphere resonated with

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Royal Turf Club Nuwara Eliya Sports Tourism Race Day 2024 Colombo

The Royal Turf Club Nuwara Eliya held its first race for the year on 24th

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide