Jubilant Jayanthi holds ‘Jaya Dekma’in Colombo

Renowned expert in saree designing and fabric painting Jayanthi Gamage will hold her newest exhibition titled ‘Jaya Dekma’ together with her students at the Jayawardenepura Centre in Colombo 7 on September 22 and 23.

The little girl who started making creative objects with sea shells, later grew up to be a talented artists winning the first prize at her school Ananda Balika Vidyalaya from Garde one onwards.

“After I left school I learnt the batik trade which was extremely popular then. Later I learnt sewing and I bought my first sewing machine with the money I earned by selling these creations. I held my maiden saree painting exhibition in 1999, she told Impulse.

THEN YOU STARTEDD SHARING YOUR KNOWLEDGEDGE …

Yes, I have held a series of programmes on television especially on Rupavahini. Then I was compelled to start my own classes. A large number of students have learnt the art from me. My students held their major and maiden exhibition in 2000 and the feedback we got was tremendous. I have held workshops in almost all parts in the country.

HOW IMPORTANT IS SUCH KNOWLEDGE FOR HOUSEWIVES

This is not only an art that brings satisfaction and polishes up your creative ability, it is also a good source of extra income. Many of my students are successfully engaging in this art which brings them good income. I conduct classes on saree work at Maharagama and Kiribathgoda. I have received the Vishva Abhimani and Diriya Kantha Awards too for my contri- butions to society. The passion for such hobbies has increased very much today, unlike in the past.

YOUR FAMILY…

I am married to Sumanasiri Gamage who has been my biggest strength in my career. My only daughter is married. My ambition is to share my knowledge with the young generation and keep this art alive.