Artful Struggles in Sri Lanka: Comparative Perspectives

This panel discussion launches a new art exhibition at Albert Sloman Library commemorating the one-year anniversary of the Aragalaya/Porattam – Sri Lanka’s extraordinary 2022 Occupy movement against corruption, immiseration, and impunity, which toppled a prime minister and a president.

Panellists will discuss Sri Lanka’s protest movement, the role of artistic activism, and comparative perspectives from the UK and Latin America.

• Sarah Demelo, Curator, Essex Collection of Art from Latin America (ESCALA)

• Samanmali Alujjage Don, Sociology

• Dr Gavin Grindon, Art History

• Professor Sandya Hewamanne, Sociology

• Sujith Rathnayake, Sri Lankan artist and founder of GotaGoGama Art Gallery

• Jessica Twyman, Curator, Art Exchange

• Professor Lars Waldorf, Essex Law School

Please join us for refreshments and a tour of the exhibition after the panel discussion.