KUCHING: Shalini Amerasinghe Ganendra’s pioneering work shines a light on colonial Sri Lanka through early photographs.
Her monograph, titled “Veins of Influence: Colonial Sri Lanka (Ceylon) in Early Photographs and Collections”, has made an impactful and far-reaching contribution to the world of photography and visual impression.
This seminal publication unveils a valuable collection of more than 450 early photographs of colonial Sri Lanka, many of which have never been published or seen by the public until now, offering a fresh perspective on this historical period.
Her unique emphasis on the dynamics of collecting offers fresh insights that humanise the images through the stories of their collectors and their journeys.
“Veins of Influence” is a work that appeals to both specialists, including scholars, collectors and curators, as well as a general audience.
Her unique analysis of these collections not only gives another layer of insight into the viewing and imaging of Ceylon specifically but also offers a general perspective on colonial image.
The publication promises a visual experience that not only demonstrates through the beauty of black and white imaging but also through impression dynamics, taking into account personal influences that operate on and through these images, including our own engagement.
Ganendra’s pioneering work bridges the gap between history, art, and culture, offering a fresh perspective on colonial Sri Lanka and its visual representation through early photography.
Her dedication to cultural development and her multidisciplinary approach ensure that her impact will continue to resonate in the global creative discourse.
Ganendra’s impact on cultural development spans nearly three decades, marked by her commitment to cultural programming and scholarship, with a particular focus on Sri Lanka.
Her contributions have reached international audiences through initiatives such as the Gallery Weekend Kuala Lumpur, the Vision Culture Artist Residency Programme, and the Unesco Observatory-endorsed Vision Culture Lectures.
Notably, she has pioneered exhibitions of Sri Lankan art in Malaysia, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom with her recent exhibition, “Image & Identity (Early colonial photography),” held at the Museum of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
Born in Sri Lanka and currently residing in Malaysia, Ganendra’s impressive academic background includes studying law at Cambridge University in 1987, where she qualified as a Barrister and New York Attorney.
She holds the distinction of being the first Sri Lankan appointed to the Tate Gallery (UK) Acquisitions Committee (SAAC).
Her extensive experience includes serving on numerous judging panels, such as the Commonwealth Arts Award, and acting as a nominator for esteemed honours like the Sovereign Art Prize and Aga Khan Architecture Awards.
Most recently, she was a Chevening Fellow at Oxford and has held visiting positions at the University of Oxford, including at the History of Art Department, St Catherine’s College, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.
Her continued contributions to academia are underscored by her upcoming role as an academic visitor at the University of Cambridge.
Her pioneering work bridges the gap between history, art, and culture, offering a fresh perspective on colonial Sri Lanka and its visual representation through early photography.
Her dedication to cultural development and her multi-disciplinary approach ensure that her impact will continue to resonate in the global creative discourse.
