KALĀ x ASAP: What is KALĀ?

January 28, 2024

Founder of KALĀ, Saskia Fernando, Curatorial Advisor, Sandhini Poddar and Curator Mariyam Begum discuss the inception of KALĀ and concepts behind the exhibition Pivot. Echo. Glide.

KALĀ, defined as “art” in Sanskrit, serves as a platform for showcasing South Asian modern and contemporary art originating from both the local and diasporic arts community. In association with the Lionel Wendt Art Centre, KALĀ aims to provide a new annual platform that contributes to the sustainable development of art ecosystems within the Sri Lankan region and wider South Asia.
KALĀ envisions fostering the growth of this event year after year, seamlessly integrating art projects and exhibitions across Sri Lanka with a diverse calendar of engaging talks, online panel discussions, and immersive workshops. Adopting a flexible and dynamic approach, KALĀ encompasses a wide spectrum of artistic projects, ranging from non-profit programs to commercially-driven endeavours such as artist residencies, talks, workshops, and collaborative collectives.

The KALĀ x ASAP series is supported by the Faizal & Shabana Foundation.