PRIYANTHA UDAGEDARA

Priyantha Udagedara (b. 1975, Kandy; lives and works in Colombo) is an artist, art historian, and curator. Udagedara’s work is deeply influenced by the socio-political realities of conflict, violence, invasion, plunder, occupation, suppression, and civil unrest. He juxtaposes the troubling aspects of existence with aesthetically pleasing motifs, creating a stark contrast that invites reflection on contemporary issues.

Udagedara holds a Doctorate in Contemporary Fine Art Practice from Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds (2013). He also earned his MA from the same institution (2007) and a BFA in Painting from the Institute of Aesthetic Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka (2003). He is a recipient of the President's Fund, Sri Lanka (2006). Udagedara currently teaches at the Department of History and Art Theory, University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo.

Udagedara’s work has been featured in exhibitions both in Sri Lanka and internationally, including Art Mumbai, Mumbai (2024); Exhibit 320, New Delhi (2024); Aicon Gallery, Los Angeles (2023); India Art Fair (2020); Baik Art Gallery, Los Angeles (2019); Aicon Gallery, New York (2017); and Breese Little Gallery, London (2014).