Regional Collaboration: A Catalyst for Sustainable Growth in Sri Lankan Arts. KALĀ 2025 Bridges the South Asian Art Scene.

KALĀ, an innovative arts platform, founded by Saskia Fernando, rooted in Sri Lanka, is setting a new standard for elevating Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art within the broader South Asian dialogue. In a region where the art landscapes of India and Pakistan have long dominated the conversation, Sri Lankan art has often struggled to gain the visibility and recognition it deserves. KALĀ 2025 is poised to change this narrative by fostering sustainable development and regional collaborations, opening new doors for Sri Lankan artists to shine on the global stage.

Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and evolving contemporary art scene have not always translated into the critical attention it warrants on the South Asian art stage. The lack of institutional support and limited opportunities for international exposure have further hindered the global reach of Sri Lankan artists. To address these challenges, a holistic approach is essential, one that emphasizes building international partnerships, enhancing art education, and deepening connections across the South Asian region.

KALĀ 2025 aims to bridge these gaps by focusing on curatorial excellence and encouraging greater participation in international art platforms. This initiative seeks to carve out a unique identity for Sri Lanka's arts ecosystem, not only boosting local art festivals and institutions but also fostering long-term growth through regional collaboration and development.

The future of Sri Lanka’s art scene lies in regional partnerships that enable resource-sharing, expertise exchange, and cross-cultural dialogue. Collaborations with neighbouring South Asian countries like Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan are crucial for a nation with a smaller art market and limited infrastructure. These alliances provide Sri Lankan artists with opportunities to engage in residencies, reach broader audiences, and participate in international exhibitions, ultimately positioning them as key contributors to the contemporary South Asian art narrative.

These collaborations do more than just increase Sri Lanka's visibility; they also strengthen the entire South Asian art community. By promoting mutual growth and fostering innovative practices, KALĀ 2025 is paving the way for Sri Lankan art to gain recognition on both regional and global platforms.

At the core of KALĀ’s mission is its dedication to creating a robust South Asian arts hub that extends beyond Sri Lanka’s borders. In line with this vision, the University of Visual and Performing Arts (UVPA) has invited KALĀ to establish a landmark South Asian Residency Programme and Open Studio. This residency, set to coincide with UVPA’s 75th anniversary, will serve as a dynamic centre for regional engagement, culminating in a public exhibition that celebrates the residency's achievements and UVPA’s longstanding contributions to local arts development.

Strategic partnerships with notable South Asian institutions such as the Samdani Art Foundation (Bangladesh), Hampi Art Labs (India), Siddhartha Foundation (Nepal), and Art Alive Foundation (India) will play a crucial role in this year's edition of KALĀ. These collaborations will offer both established and emerging artists the opportunity to participate in residencies, exchange programs, and collaborative projects, fostering a vibrant space for cultural dialogue and artistic innovation.

In addition, KALĀ’s partnerships with programming allies like the Art South Asia Project (ASAP), GoodLifeX (GLX Hub), and local galleries will further amplify the voices and perspectives of artists and cultural leaders. Through these initiatives, KALĀ is positioning itself as a central hub for creative exchange, building stronger ties within the South Asian arts community.

KALĀ is more than just an arts festival, it is a transformative platform that positions Sri Lanka as a key player in the conversation about contemporary South Asian art. By engaging regional artists and facilitating meaningful dialogues, KALĀ 2025 aims to expand the presence of Sri Lankan art on the international stage, creating a lasting impact on the arts communities both within South Asia and beyond.