George Keyt Foundation debuts limited edition prints of ‘Kangodi Ragini’ honouring masterpiece

The George Keyt Foundation presented limited edition prints of ‘Kangodi Ragini’ – a mode in Indian music – painted in 1951 by the iconic Sri Lankan artist, the late George Keyt, to art connoisseurs recently. The painting along with 20 other works was presented to The George Keyt Foundation by George Keyt himself in 1990.

Thirty ‘limited edition’ prints of this artwork were created out of which 28 prints were acquired by admirers of his work, reflecting the enduring appeal of George Keyt’s art.

This event marked a milestone for both preserving Keyt’s legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned modern artists, as well as helping secure funding for the George Keyt Foundation’s ongoing activities to support the nation’s visual arts community.

The Foundation emphasised the significance of the chosen painting; ‘Kangodi Ragini’ – as the largest painting at 60 x 42.5 inches, in the Foundation’s collection and critics consider it to be one of its finest. The timeless painting’s vivid colours and modernist figures are brilliantly representative of Keyt’s artistic genius. It is also one of his few surviving paintings from a brief period spent in India. The original 1951 painting narrowly avoided damage in a fire that destroyed much of Keyt’s other work stored in India.

The significant painting, dormant from public view for nearly three decades, stands out not only for its artistic brilliance but also for its historical journey. The Foundation chose this masterpiece for its limited edition print both in appreciation of Keyt’s pioneering aesthetic vision, as well as to make his work accessible to art devotees.

George Keyt Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Malaka Talwatte said, “In creating George Keyt Foundation certified limited edition prints of George Keyt’s iconic masterpiece, we celebrate his enduring legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s most influential modern artists. The George Keyt Foundation continues Keyt’s legacy not only by making his works accessible to new audiences, but also by actively nurturing the next generation of Sri Lankan artistic talent. We believe art has an unparalleled capacity to uplift humanity and are committed to supporting artists across the island to refine their craft and share their unique creative visions.”

George Keyt (1901-1993) is hailed as the country’s most celebrated visual artist. He blended classical Eastern and Western aesthetics with an original pictorial language. As a leading figure of the Asian modernist art movement, Keyt’s vivid, fluid style captivated global audiences.

His enduring legacy continues through his art and the George Keyt Foundation which supports Sri Lankan artists. Keyt formulated an aesthetic, interweaving indigenous traditions with modernism, leaving an indelible impact, inspiring generations, and contributing to the development of Sri Lankan art.

Endorsing to Keyt’s legacy, the George Keyt Foundation has pioneered numerous art initiatives over its 35-year history. Through organising exhibitions, events, and annual programs including the ‘Young Contemporaries’, ‘Lankan Art’, ‘Kala Pola’, and ‘Nawa Kalakaruwo’, the Foundation provides opportunities for local artists to develop and showcase their work.

The Foundation also promotes collaborations, offers exposure to artists, and publishes catalogues and books on George Keyt. The George Keyt Foundation also rehabilitated the shrine room housing Keyt’s iconic ‘Life of Lord Buddha’ murals at Gothami Viharaya, Borella. Generous sponsors continue to assist the Foundation’s work in advancing the revival of arts and introducing new generations of Sri Lankan artists.