On the first day these paintings of Jaffna city life had already been snapped up with a sold sticker. Other works were clearly influenced by Picasso’s cubism style while bring in elements of religious iconography prevalent to culture and life in the Jaffn

Uduvil Girls’ College recently held an art exhibition at the JDA Perera Gallery. This was their first major exhibition held outside of the Jaffna peninsula. Previously they held an exhibition at the school premises to celebrate the 190th anniversary of the inception of the school.

Founded in 1824 by American missionaries they proudly boast the accolade of being the first boarding school for girls in Asia. Established in a time when education for girls was not compulsory let alone favoured. The first two students were two girls who sought refuge at a missionary’s bungalow during a rainstorm. Currently the school educates approximately 1300 students.

Approximately 200 paintings by 27 students were on display while a handful of past students also contributed works of art.

The inspiration for the exhibition was to give the students exposure to an art gallery. Equally they wish to sell the paintings to raise much need funds to repair and renovate old classrooms. Students from the ages of 14 sitting their GCE exams to 17 year olds sitting the A-Level exams participated in the exhibition. Art teacher S. Arulramesh described the artwork as having “ modern influences with other works having traditional landscapes influenced by the Jaffna scenery.” On the first day these paintings of Jaffna city life had already been snapped up with a sold sticker. Other works were clearly influenced by Picasso’s cubism style while bring in elements of religious iconography prevalent to culture and life in the Jaffna peninsula There was a mixture of still life, portraiture, landscapes and animals. Depicted in watercolours, oils, and acrylic as well as graphite pencil. The girls clearly have a great passion and talent for art. Taught by an equally dedicated art teacher and principal. “We have valued this exhibition very much to showcase the art of the students, they have been thrilled to come to an established gallery to have their works on display. In all it has been a success,” said Mrs Shiranee Mills the principal.