About us - Kala

KALĀ, derived from the Sanskrit word for “art”, serves as a dynamic platform dedicated to promoting modern and contemporary South Asian art, both locally and across the diaspora. Our mission focuses on championing sustainable development within Sri Lanka’s art ecosystems, as well as the broader South Asian region.

Through KALĀ, we create opportunities for collaborative and experiential expression, identifying areas that require greater visibility and engagement. Our efforts aim to strengthen Sri Lanka’s role within the South Asian artistic landscape. As a catalyst for change, KALĀ inspires collaborations on local, regional, and international levels, with a particular focus on highlighting Sri Lankan art initiatives to a global audience.

Art South Asia Project (ASAP), UK, programming partners with KALĀ, will curate a public programme of talks and workshops dedicated to the art ecosystem of South Asia and its diaspora. The partnership will encourage UK-Sri Lanka dialogues and professional development for the KALĀ curatorial and programme teams through peer-to-peer support with ASAP and its networks.

GOOD LIFE X (GLX), a catalyst in regenerative futures, will shape the residency programme and public events. Drawing on their local expertise and industry insights, they will collaborate with KALĀ to ensure the programming reflects both the Sri Lankan context and wider South Asian perspectives.

Our Objectives

KALĀ is a dynamic arts platform in Sri Lanka, champions the growth of Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art within the broader South Asian context.

Promote Local Development

Facilitate Collaborative Expression

Strengthen Regional Connections

Highlight Sri Lankan Art Globally

Engage the Public

Expand Schools Outreach

KALĀ: Expanding Horizons

Our Team

Saskia Fernando

Founding Director

Saskia Fernando is a Sri Lankan gallerist and entrepreneur. She is best known for her pioneering work in developing the contemporary art scene in Sri Lanka and providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work to a wider audience. Saskia is the founder of the Saskia Fernando Gallery, which has become a hub for contemporary art and culture in Colombo. Saskia’s vision and passion for contemporary art have helped introduce Sri Lankan art to a global stage while cultivating a deep appreciation for the region’s rich artistic heritage. In addition to her work as a curator, Saskia is also an advocate for nurturing artistic talent and cultural exchange. She is committed to promoting Sri Lanka as a hub for cultural and artistic expression and has contributed to several initiatives aimed at developing local talent.

Sandhini Poddar

Curatorial Advisor

Sandhini Poddar is a London-based art historian and Adjunct Curator-at-Large at the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project. With a profound understanding of South Asian modern and contemporary art, she has played a pivotal role in shaping discourse surrounding art from the region, both in India and internationally. Her academic background, combined with her professional experience over the past twenty years, has made her a recognised authority in the field. Throughout her career, Sandhini has curated numerous impactful exhibitions that have garnered critical acclaim. She has showcased the works of established and emerging artists from South Asia and the diaspora, exploring a diverse range of themes and perspectives. Her exhibitions have opened new chapters in Asian art history.

Mandira Ranathunga

Assistant Curator

Mandira Ranathunga is a curator, assistant lecturer, artist, and researcher specialising in art history, contemporary art, gallery studies, and museology. Her research centers on gallery spaces and Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art. Mandira is a graduate of the University of Visual and Performing Arts. She is dedicated to advancing art education, curation, and cultural heritage.

Michele Thurairaja

Project Director

Michele Thurairaja joins the team with a background in strategic communication and project management, with experience designing and delivering content for festivals in Sri Lanka, including creating sustainable partnerships, education, and collaboration.