The Jayantha Premachandra Foundation (JPF), in collaboration with La Maison de Colombo, is delighted to present “Liberté de Jayantha Premachandra” — a unique exhibition featuring the works of the late, acclaimed Sri Lankan artist Jayantha Premachandra (JP).

This exclusive event will be held on 6th September 2025 and will be open to a limited number of art enthusiasts on a pre-registration basis, due to the growing demand for Jayantha Premachandra’s work.

The exhibition is thoughtfully curated by Mr. Jagath Ravindra, Director General of VAPA TV and Former Dean of the Faculty of Visual Arts at the University of the Visual & Performing Arts, Colombo. A highlight of the evening will be a presentation by Professor Osmund Bopearachchi, Emeritus Director of Research at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) — an eminent numismatist, art historian, and archaeologist — ensuring a deeply enriching experience for all attendees.

The collection showcases several paintings from JP’s years in Paris, some of which are being publicly exhibited for the very first time in Sri Lanka. Each piece, created over 35 years ago, offers an authentic glimpse into a pivotal period in the artist’s creative journey, including some of his final works.

Ms. Nianka Premachandra, Chairperson of JPF, stated, “When Mr. Christophe Coucaud requested to exhibit my father’s work at La Maison de Colombo, it was a wonderful opportunity to recreate the Parisian atmosphere in which these paintings were born — right here in Colombo. We are grateful to Professor Bopearachchi and Mr. Jagath Ravindra for their invaluable guidance in curating this exclusive selection for our art enthusiasts.”

Jayantha Premachandra received official recognition from the French Ministry of Culture, solidifying his status as a professional artist. His profound artistic journey disseminated Sri Lankan culture on a global stage. As one of the most widely travelled Sri Lankan artists, he held over 45 solo exhibitions across Europe — including the UK, Scandinavia, the former USSR — as well as the Middle East and South Asia

Mr. Christophe Coucaud, Owner of La Maison de Colombo and host of the event, said, “I am delighted to share with Jayantha Premachandra Foundation the opportunity to organise this unique exhibition at La Maison de Colombo, very recently opened. Discussing with JPF and Nilanka gave me strong inspiration about having this partnership. I have immediately understood our alignment in terms of simplicity, authenticity, “Art de Vivre” and affordability. Our values, people-oriented, respecting each other, are essential for La Maison de Colombo, and JP Foundation, having people in our heart, working in sustainability.” 

La Maison de Colombo is a boutique hotel where Sri Lankan charm meets French elegance in the heart of Colombo, offering an intimate experience that combines heartwarming discussion with privacy. The hotel features artistically designed rooms, authentic French cuisine, and selected French wines. At this event, the venue will also launch the exclusive Bollinger Rosé & cuvée special in Sri Lanka.

The Jayantha Premachandra Foundation (JPF) is dedicated to preserving and promoting JP’s artistic legacy through meaningful charitable acts and fostering international connections among art enthusiasts. The Foundation actively contributes to positioning Sri Lanka as a destination for cultural and artistic appreciation. Among its philanthropic efforts are the refurbishment of a neurology ward at the General Hospital, Colombo, and funding support to the University of the Visual & Performing Arts to empower emerging artists — both made possible through the auctioning of paintings.

Additionally, the Foundation has published a comprehensive academic book detailing the life and works of Jayantha Premachandra, researched by a team of experts from the Painting Department of the University of the Visual & Performing Arts and authored by Mr. Jagath Ravindra.

The evening will conclude with a celebration featuring French amuse-bouches and Champagne Bollinger, perfectly complementing the refined French ambience of La Maison de Colombo, located at No. 82, Stratford Avenue, Colombo 6.

The event partners are The Department of Painting, University of the Visual & Performing Arts, Colombo, Lake View Ink, Purest tea and The Sunday Times, Daily Mirror, Hi Magazine as print and TV1, News First as electronic media partners.