George Keyt Foundation Partners with Sotheby’s to Showcase Sri Lankan Artists in Landmark Charity Auction

First-ever Sotheby International Auction in Sri Lanka to Spotlight Local Talent on Global Stage

The George Keyt Foundation is set to usher in a transformative chapter for Sri Lanka’s creative arts through a historic partnership with Sotheby International, one of the world’s leading auction houses for fine and decorative art, jewelry, and collectibles. This marks the first time Sotheby’s will conduct an auction in Sri Lanka, in an event that will showcase and sell works by local Sri Lankan artists in an unprecedented charity auction.

The three-day event schedule to take place from December 7-9, 2024, at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, provides a remarkable opportunity to spotlight Sri Lankan artists on an international platform, reflecting the growing global interest in the country’s artistic talent.

The event led by Ishrat Kanga, Director, Specialist, and Co-Worldwide Head of Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art at Sotheby’s will kick off on December 7 with a preview and opening night, followed by an interactive session with Ishrat Kanga on December 8. During this session, Kanga will provide invaluable insights to emerging Sri Lankan artists and art students on how to elevate their careers and understand the preferences of international buyers. The event is free to the public but requires pre-registration.

Later that evening, Kanga will also speak at an exclusive dinner on the growth of art as an investment/asset class and the importance of building a creative economy. The main auction will take place on December 9, bringing together art collectors, investors, and enthusiasts in support of the George Keyt Foundation's mission.

The Charity Auction will feature approximately 40 carefully selected pieces by Sri Lankan artists, offering collectors and art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to acquire remarkable works while supporting the George Keyt Foundation's ongoing initiatives.

The primary objective of the auction is to raise funds for vital projects undertaken by the George Keyt Foundation, including the restoration of the Gothami Viharaya murals, the compilation of a catalogue raisonné of George Keyt’s works, the production of a documentary film about his life and art, and the continuation of the Foundation’s key initiatives such as Kala Pola and Artist of the Year.

Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Malaka Talwatte, Chairperson of the George Keyt Foundation, said, "This auction represents a landmark moment for Sri Lankan art. Partnering with Sotheby’s opens new doors for local artists and provides a global platform to showcase Sri Lankan talent."

He added, "The event is not only a celebration of Sri Lankan art but also a meaningful contribution to preserving our cultural heritage. The George Keyt Foundation remains committed to democratizing the art space in Sri Lanka and honouring the legacy of George Keyt."

Cinnamon Life joins as Platinum sponsor with Nations Trust Bank as Co-sponsor. The charity auction is also supported by Colombo Jewellery Stores, MA Lanka, Rockland and Calcey. 

For more information and pre-registration details contact: [email protected]