Two-day exhibition and forum bridging art and environmental advocacy

Raising awareness through art, judges going through the entries

• 29 and 30 August at Royal MAS Arena, Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 7 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The global crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable waste management, among other human-induced environmental challenges, demands urgent collective action. While scientific reports and policy advancements are crucial, the power of art in raising awareness and mobilising individuals cannot be overlooked. Recognising art’s unique ability to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and foster a profound connection between individuals and the environment, the Youth Wing of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka (WNPS), supported by USAID, has organised “Tales of Conservation”, under the broader theme “Action and Aspiration combined with Art”. 

This unique exhibition will showcase a diverse range of artwork, including photographs, digital installations, paintings, sculptures, and fashion designs, centered around the themes of waste management, conservation, climate change, conservation education, and environmental legislation.

Scheduled for 29 and 30 August at the Royal MAS Arena, Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 7 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., this exhibition is set to be a powerful platform for exploring creative solutions to the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability. Through a diverse array of art, from sculpture to photography, the exhibition aims to showcase the beauty and fragility of our natural world, inspiring deeper appreciation for biodiversity. From climate change’s impact on endangered species to sustainable waste management, the artworks highlight the urgent need for conservation. By raising awareness and fostering dialogue, this exhibition aspires to catalyze collective action for a sustainable future.

Beyond the visual arts, the event will feature engaging forum discussions with experts from various fields, as well as representatives from the WNPS, Academia, civil society, and other environmental organisations. These conversations will bridge theoretical knowledge with practical solutions, empowering attendees to become agents of change, while simultaneously providing a platform for patrons to voice their opinions and share their experiences.

Art has the unique power to communicate complex scientific concepts in a relatable and emotionally resonant way. By showcasing inspiring images, artworks, and visual stories, “Tales of Conservation” aims to deepen public understanding of the natural environment and the profound impact humans can have on it.

Forum themes and panelists:

Thematic priority: Conservation education

Date and time: 29 August, 2.30 - 4 p.m.

Moderator: Pavithra Attanayake

Panelists: 

Uditha Hettige (YZA)

Narmadha Dangampola (BCSSL)

Kanchana Perera (FEO)

Dr. Jody Miller

Keshan Perera (WNPS)

Thematic priority: Environmental legislation

Date and time: 29 August, 4.30 - 6 p.m.

Moderator: Revan Weerasinghe (WNPS)

Panelists: 

Nimshi Hirimbura (EFL)

Samadhi Hansani (CEJ)

Dr. Jagath Gunawardana

Ravi Algama

Thematic priority: Climate change

Date and time: 29 August, 6.15 - 7.45 p.m.

Moderator: Sheran Fernando

Panelists: 

Kavindu Ediriweera (SLYCAN Trust)

Rishan Sampath (Dilmah Conservation)

Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody (WNPS)

Prof. Erandathie Lokupitiya

Sanith de Silva Wijeyeratne

Thematic priority: Waste management

Date and time: 30 August, 2.30 - 4 p.m.

Moderator: Medhisha Gunawardena (WNPS)

Panelists: 

Shiranee Yasaratne (BSL)

Nishshanka De Silva (ZeroPlastic Movement)

Dr. Terney Pradeep Kumara

Arosha Hemali

Thematic priority: Conservation

Date and time: 30 August, 4.30 - 6 p.m.

Moderator: Pavithra Attanayake

Panelists: 

Anya Ratnayaka (Urban Fishing Cat Conservation Project)

Prof. Sampath Seneviratne (WNPS)

Dr. Sumith Pilapitiya

Prof. Sarath Kotagama

Prof. Enoka Kudavidanage

Other activities to join in on:

Collaboration with Urban Sketches

Seed vault

Mural painting and more.