The HSBC Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival’s second edition will happen at the Colombo Public Library from January 17 to 19.
It’s the year the library turns a hundred and under the curatorship of Mita Kapur, the festival promises over 32 sessions with more than 50 authors and artists including Pulitzer, Gratiaen and State Literary Award winners.
Directors of the festival and sponsors gathered at the HSBC’s elegant Fort premises, and said Mark Surgenor, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Sri Lanka, “Our ambition is to bring the best of the world to Sri Lanka and take the best of Sri Lanka to the world.”
“This event is a celebration of our rich culture and heritage, and as a home-grown brand Cinnamon is incredibly proud to support such an important occasion,” Kamal Munasinghe, General Manager, Cinnamon Grand Colombo said.
The festival encompasses four distinct segments, each designed to nurture different aspects of the creative industry.
The Art Festival, in association with John Keells Foundation and curated by Pramodha Weerasekera, focuses on the theme of ‘Semi-Autobiography’ blending literature with visual art and providing a platform for young and emerging artists. The Art Exhibit features works from over 16 artists.
The Children’s Festival brings an exciting mix of local and international authors who will conduct interactive book readings and creative sessions for youngsters aged 6-13.
The Film Festival, curated by acclaimed filmmaker Vimukthi Jayasundara, celebrates film as a powerful storytelling medium, with a Short Films Competition empowering young filmmakers to unleash their creative vision through compelling visual narratives.
Building on last year’s resounding success that attracted over 100 entries, the Future Writers Programme, presented by Dilmah, launches this year with a workshop for aspiring writers aged 16-29, led by award-winning international and local authors on Saturday, January 18.
For more information and tickets, please visit ceylonliteraryfestival.com
There are free passes available for students as well.
The other festival sponsors include Taj Samudra, the John Keells Foundation, Clouds by SOZO, the British Council, Goethe-Institut, Synamon Global and the Rukmini Tissanayagam Trust.
(The Sunday Times)
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