A special exhibition representing Sri Lanka is set to feature at The India Biennale 2026 in New Delhi, India. Titled Island of Many Selves - Identity, Memory and the Plurality of Belonging, the event will gather established local creators to spotlight the island's diverse cultural roots and modern artistic expressions.
The project took shape after Sharan Apparao, acting on behalf of India's Ministry of Culture, invited architect Philip Weeraratne to organise the country's presentation. Weeraratne will design the exhibition alongside PWA Architects, while Kasun Jayamanne steps in as curator.
The Biennale and Venue
The India Biennale 2026 is scheduled to run from December 4, 2026, to March 21, 2027. Held under the theme Tat Tvam Asi (You Are That) - Reconnecting in an Age of Distraction, it will spread across museums, heritage sites, galleries, and public spaces in New Delhi.
For Sri Lanka's part, the showcase will be housed at the Lalit Kala Akademi, offering visitors a deep dive into the island's modern art movement.
The Line-up of Artists
Altogether 11 artists will take part: Anoli Perera, Chudamani Clowes, Gayan Prageeth, Hema Shironi, Jagath Weerasinghe, Kingsley Gunatillake, Pradeep Thalawatta, Priyantha Udagedara, Saskia Pintelon, Senaka Senanayake, and Sivasubramaniam Kajendran.
Organisers noted that the collection aims to look past a single national label. Instead, the artists will reflect on long histories of trade, migration, colonial ties, spiritual practices, and political shifts.
What happens next
The India Biennale 2026 will take place from December 4, 2026, to March 21, 2027, across various cultural venues in New Delhi.
