Sri Lanka has a proud heritage of arts and crafts and you’ll find a distinctive memento to take home among the wide range of items for sale in Colombo. Popular handicrafts include gold and silver jewellery set with gems, wooden masks, intricate lace-work, lacquerwork and ceramics.
The full-range of handicrafts is available in the many stores in and around the capital, but you can also see the work that goes into creating them as you travel around the country – watch deft hands weaving intricate lace patterns in towns around the south-western coast or see the pottery wheels in action at the small village of Molagoda in the central provinces.
Masks
One of the most popular and ancient acts is the 18 Sanni that are thought to represent diseases or ailments caused by yakkas (devils). Eighteen masks carved to represent the torment felt through these deceases are worn by an exorcist and a tovil, devil dance, is performed. Other popular mask dances or dramas are Kolam and Raksha, one a comedic performance and the other masks mainly used in festivals and processions.
Ambalangoda is known to be the heart of mask carving with many shops dotting the road side as you drive along this coastal town. If you happen to pop into one of the stores, you will be able to see how these masks are carved and painted with brilliant colours and take one along as well.
Handloom
Long ago handloom was reserved exclusively for the royalty and the renowned in the country and special villages were designated to practice the craft. However, now Handloom is generally found around the island as a self-employed or entrepreneurial activity where this skill which has been passed down from generation to generation has been revived and practiced.
Among handloom products in Sri Lanka are, curtains, cushion overs and other household decorative items, saris and garments as well as everyday items such as books and bags.
Handwoven fabrics, with its vibrant colours and simple or elaborate patterns have become a favourite among shoppers.
Making of traditional drums
The traditional drums or Bera, is undoubtedly part of the Sri Lankan culture. The special skill and craftsmanship required for the making of these drums are possessed by a numbered few—communities across Kurunegala and Hodiyadeniya in the Kandy district. The body of the drum is fashioned mostly out of Jack tree, and the skin is made out of animal hide. After long hours of divided work within each group, the keen and detail oriented drum makers present beautifully shaped and designed drums with the right sound.
Drum making is also largely practiced in Hikkaduwa located in the Southern region of Sri Lanka.
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