Based in my home studio in Colombo, Sri Lanka, I am an experienced artist and art therapist with a professional background spanning over three decades of advertising, fine art, and therapeutic art practice. I hold a BA Honours in Sociology from the University of Colombo, complemented by diplomas in Journalism and Mass Communication, International Cookery, and Landscape and Interior Design.
I am a prolific self-taught artist, unrestricted by style or theme. My work ranges from traditional to modern to unconventional, including acrylics, watercolours, coffee painting, and digital art, drawing inspiration from the vibrant diversity of the natural world. Every artwork I create is made using only the finest materials, from canvas to high-quality, non-toxic mediums, with framing and UV protection to ensure it stands the test of time. I take on commissioned pieces for private and commercial clients, maintain an active client base from my home studio, and have exhibited my work through successful exhibitions and community engagement events.
Professional Background
My creative career spans senior roles as Creative Director and Copywriter at leading agencies including Bates Asia, Ogilvy, and Masters DDB, as well as Communication Strategic Consultant to government ministries, NGOs, and major brands. My work has earned numerous local and international gold awards, with notable campaigns including:
- “Sudu Neluma” (1994) — The National Peace Campaign for the Sri Lankan government, recognised as Best SLIM and IAA International Social Awareness Campaign, highlighting the power of women in building a better society.
- “Arunodaya / ‘Juki’ Is Not My Name” (1999) — Created for the NGO American Free Labour Movement, building awareness and self-respect for young female factory workers migrating from rural to urban Sri Lanka.
Other notable achievements include:
- Curriculum Development Panel Member for Strengthening Journalism Education in South East Asian Universities, funded by Illinois University (1997–1999)
- Consultant to the Ministry of Irrigation & Water Management on Mahaveli left bank development and women’s empowerment (2002–2004)
- Lead of the “Sarasavi Saviya” campaign for the Ministry of Higher Education, bridging the private sector with young graduates (2002–2004)
- Personal Advisor to the Minister of Women and Child Affairs (2015), spearheading the “Uththama Pooja” nutrition campaign for pregnant women
- Brand-building contributor for the Coca-Cola Cricket World Cup 1996
A Certified Art Therapist
My path to therapeutic art was shaped by a lifetime of deep connection to Sri Lankan culture and community. Growing up traveling and living across the country, influenced by my father – a native doctor and agriculture research officer – and my mother – a prominent school principal – I developed a firsthand understanding of diverse social communities. Through my advertising career and lived experience, I saw how many people struggle not just with physical or mental ailments, but with fear, isolation, and a lack of support, and discovered the transformative power of artistic expression to heal and empower.
Today, through Planet Asgiri Art Studio, I work as a qualified art therapist and instructor, conducting therapeutic sessions and workshops for seniors, women, children, youth, and working professionals. My specialisations include dementia, autism, medical recoveries, loneliness management, and digital distraction. I take a research-based, case-by-case approach, developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals including consultants, surgeons, and biomedical engineers. I also volunteer with senior citizens and young children at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka and other non-profit healthcare institutions, and provide training for healthcare professionals, students, and counsellors.
My mission is to harness the power of creativity as a tool for healing, personal growth, and authentic self-expression – and to unleash the artistic paragon in everyone I work with.
I also develop professional teaching curriculums for various demographics, designed to empower their artistic journey and develop cognitive and creative skills.
Planet Asgiri Studio
My therapeutic art studio, located in Battaramulla, is an oasis of thriving nature that is designed to perfectly complement the healing and wellness journey.
Featuring plentiful open space including a rooftop lawn, a large studio for group sessions, wheelchair access and the facility to choose your own refreshments. Participants practice art therapy surrounded by therapeutic natural elements such as lush greenery and the relaxing sounds of water and birdsong.
