Introduction

Fabulous Shades 2026 – Batik Wear Exhibition was successfully conducted from 23nd to 25th January 2026 at JDA Perera Gallery, organized by the Department of Textile and Wearable Arts, Faculty of Visual Arts, University of the Visual and Per-forming Arts. The exhibition was organized in accordance with the proposal and aimed to celebrate batik as a traditional yet evolving form of contemporary wearable art, while strengthening the relationship between academic learning and the professional batik industry. Visiting Lecturer Mr. Prageeth Liyanarachchi provided continuous guidance to students throughout the batik production process. The exhibition show-cased batik masterpieces inspired by the theme Flora & Fauna, celebrating the beauty of nature through intricate pat-terns, colors, and craftsmanship.

Opening Ceremony and Guests

The exhibition was ceremonially opened on 23nd January 2026 with the presence of Professor Rohan Nethsinghe, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Prof. Greeta Vangazel, Former HOD- Department of Textile and Wearable Arts, Dr. Ayesha Wickramasinghe, Chairperson of the National Craft Council, Dr. Chani Imbulgoda, Registrar of the University of the Visual and Performing Arts. The opening ceremony was attended by academic staff members, visiting lecturers, batik industry professionals: Mrs. Charini Sooriyage from Charini, Mrs. Indi Yapa Abeywardena from House of Indi, Mrs. Darshi Keerthisena from Buddhi Bathik, Mr. Asanka De Mel from Lovi Ceylon, Mrs. Deema Rupasinghe from Lilly Store, Mrs. Sharm Liyanasooriya from Isle of Batik, Mrs. From Luxury Batik, Mrs. Anushka Jayamanna from Elegant Closet, Mrs. Akvithi from Akvithi, Mrs. Nishu Palipana from Ceylon Batik and students, and invited guests.

Participants and Exhibits

The exhibition featured batik creations developed by undergraduate students of the Department of Textile and Wearable Arts, with a special contribution from final year students, who exhibited professionally developed batik sarees targeting the retail market. Alongside student work, experts and established brand owners from the batik industry participated in the exhibition, showcasing industry level craftsmanship and contemporary approaches to batik design.

Academic and Industry Engagement

A key highlight of Fabulous Shades 2026 was the strong interaction between students and industry professionals. Students were able to meet batik experts, brand owners, and practitioners, enabling them to:

  • Share ideas and creative processes
  • Receive professional advice and constructive feedback
  • Gain insights into market trends, branding, and entrepreneurship
  • Understand real-world applications of batik techniques

This knowledge exchange fulfilled one of the main objectives of the exhibition by bridging academic learning with industry expertise.

Educational Value and Learning Outcomes

The exhibition provided students with practical exposure beyond the classroom, enhancing their skills in design development, presentation, and professional communication. It also supported the department’s long-term goal of improving graduate employability by creating opportunities for networking, internships, and future collaborations with industry professionals.

Overall Success of the Exhibition

Fabulous Shades 2026 – Batik Wear Exhibition was successfully concluded with positive feedback from participants, visitors, and industry professionals. The quality of exhibits, effective organization, and meaningful industry engagement contributed to the overall success of the event. The exhibition effectively highlighted the department’s commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing innovation in textile and wearable arts.

Future Plans

In view of the success and impact of Fabulous Shades 2026, it has been decided to continue the Batik Wear Exhibition as an annual event. The exhibition is planned to be held again in the coming year with expanded participation and enhanced industry collaboration, providing continued benefits for future generations of students.

Conclusion

Fabulous Shades 2026 – Batik Wear Exhibition successfully achieved its objectives by creating a platform for creative expression, professional exposure, and academic–industry collaboration. The exhibition played a vital role in enriching student learning experiences and reinforcing batik’s significance as a culturally rooted and globally relevant wearable art form.

Advisory Committee

  • U. G. N. D. Weerasinghe (Senior Lecturer, Head of the Department)
  • P. M. Liyanarachchi (Visiting Lecturer)
  • S. M. Dilrukshi (Probationary Lecturer)
  • H. R. N. Dakshika (Temporary Lecturer)
  • A. G. M. Lakmal (Temporary Lecturer)
  • W. L. A. N. Fernando (Temporary Lecturer)

Board of Designers

Final Year

  • Navodya Nagodawithana
  • Hashini Jayaweera
  • Ashen Sanjaya
  • Sanjana Nimeshi
  • Ravindu Vishwanath
  • Hiruprabha Sandamuthu
  • Prasadi Dinushika
  • Hashini Tharaka
  • Malki Prarthana
  • Hansala Sithani
  • Isuru Kavindya
  • Prabashwari Kaushalya
  • Aasiya Aathim

Volunteering Team

3rd Year

  • A. H. M. Himasha Chamuduni Jayathilaka
  • M. Samudhi Amasha Fernando
  • H. Nisansala Sewwandi
  • S. A. Lochana Dewmi
  • M. A. Saumya Dilsha Virajini
  • A. Nishadi Wathsala
  • Udeshika Amilabhashini Wickramasinghe
  • K. A. C. Divyanjalee Kulathunga
  • G. Bhagya Ranamayuri Senawathna

2nd Year

  • L. H. S. Thiyamini
  • M. H. R. Saubhagya
  • C. J. Kodithuwakku
  • A. M. L. K. Adhikarinayake
  • A. A. D. D. Adhikari
  • H. P. D. K. Gunawardhana
  • W. M. A. K. Wijesundara
  • G. D. Promodya
  • K. P. S. T. Vidyarathna
  • M. E. S. N. Munasinghe
  • A. M. K. Dilshani
  • S. K. S. S. Kumara