Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya attended the opening of a landmark exhibition featuring 19th-century artworks of Ceylon at Westminster House on July 30, marking the first public art display held at the official British High Commissioner's residence.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya participated in the inauguration of the "19th Century Views of Ceylon" exhibition on July 30, 2026, at Westminster House, the official residence of the British High Commissioner in Colombo. The event marked a significant milestone, as it represented the first public art exhibition hosted at the venue.
The exhibition, organised jointly by the George Keyt Foundation and the British High Commission, showcases a curated collection of 19th-century artworks depicting Ceylon created by renowned British artists including Edward Lear, Andrew Nicholl, and Constance Gordon Cumming. Drawing primarily from private collections, the works are being displayed publicly for the first time, presenting historical visual documentation of Sri Lanka's landscapes, architecture, and cultural heritage as observed by visiting artists during the colonial period.
During her visit, the Prime Minister toured the exhibition and engaged in discussions with organisers and attendees regarding the significance of cultural heritage preservation and international cooperation in the arts. The event was attended by British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick, George Keyt Foundation Chairman Malaka Talwatte, foundation representatives, diplomatic officials, artists, cultural figures, and other invited guests.
According to organisers, the exhibition reflects the longstanding cultural and historical relationship between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom while promoting greater recognition of Sri Lanka's artistic traditions.
