Architect 2012 Exhibition opens for public

The pre-eminent and most popular exhibition of architecture and construction in the country, the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) was ceremonially opened on Wednesday at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH). The general public will be able to visit the exhibition until the 26 February between 10a.m. and 10p.m.

The ceremonial opening of the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition was held soon after the Inauguration Ceremony of ‘Architect 2012’, the Annual Sessions of SLIA. Two of the international delegates present were Jan Gehl from Denmark, an expert in city planning and renowned Architect, Prof. Frans van der Werf from Netherlands.

This year’s Annual Sessions is based on the theme: ‘Regenerating Sri Lanka, the Architect and the Built Environment.’ An awards scheme recognised the best stalls at the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition.

Begun in 1983, the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition has continuously grown from strength to strength annually, and the 29th exhibition this year is expected to see its popularity and significance increasing further. Based on last year’s turnout, more than 70,000 visitors are estimated to attend this year’s Exhibition.

The 380 stalls this year display the work of architects, students and also the products and services of construction companies. The general public is able to access various products related to the construction industry including eco-friendly, residential and commercial products, as well as items for landscaping, bathrooms and interiors, which were locally and internationally produced. Visitors can also experience several new technologies available in the market.

In addition, the exhibition displays the work of 90 architectural firms. The displays also include the creations and course work of the students of the University of Moratuwa and the City School of Architecture.

Outlining the objective of the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition, Archt. Ranjan Nadesapillai, President of the SLIA said, “The exhibition is targeted at the general public of Sri Lanka and it is expected to create awareness regarding the importance of any construction being built with the assistance and consultation of those who are qualified.”

One of the highlights at the exhibition is the Information Centre run by SLIA. Here, visitors are given the opportunity to learn about the practice of architecture and its significance. The Centre will sell publications by the SLIA and acts as a resource hub to young people who wish to pursue architecture as a profession.

Alumex, being SLIA’s Strategic Sponsor for the year 2011/2012, is the main sponsor for ‘Architect 2012’.

Prof. Jan Gehl and Prof. Frans van der Werf, Keynote Speakers at the Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects, ceremonially open the Members’ Work and Trade Exhibition. Archt. D. H. Wijewardena, Honorary Secretary, SLIA, Archt. Ranjan Nadesapillai, President, SLIA and Archt. Harsha Fernando, Vice President, SLIA are also present

Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa tours the Architect 2011 exhibition yesterday – Pic by Upul Abayasekara