Interview
Sisil Fernando
Sisil Fernando is a Sri Lankan artist exploring new dimensions of art, constantly seeking to push the boundaries between reality and imagination. He holds an Bachelor of Visual Arts (Special) University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo, and a Master’s Degree in Graphic Communication from the University of South Wales, UK. Sisil’s paintings merge the real and the imaginary, creating new realities from existing ones. He is particularly drawn to urban landscapes, capturing city buildings, vehicles, street lamps, and people as they navigate unfamiliar streets.
His artistic evolution is shaped by his experiences with diverse cultures and social landscapes. Art, for him, is more than a visual expression - it is a medium to connect, inspire, and uplift. Beyond illustration, Sisil’s purpose extends toward making a meaningful impact on his country and society. As an optimistic artist, he channels his creative energy not only to bring joy but also to foster positivity and well-being in those around him. His duty is not just to create art, but to cultivate happiness and optimism through his work.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“Actually, I was in the art world from a young age. My first art teacher was my father. He is a talented artist and I think my father's genes gave me the ability to draw. Thus, inspired by my father, I entered the world of art and began to experiment with new art. There, I completed my honors degree in visual art at the Colombo University of the Visual and Performance Arts and completed my Master's in Graphic Communication at the University of South Wales in the United Kingdom. Also, during my university studies, due to my interest and talent in drawing cartoons, I also had the opportunity to work as a political cartoonist in several national newspapers in Sri Lanka. Having entered the art world in this way, I have been actively involved in the art field as a professional artist for about 15 years.”
What inspires you?
“I started my work by drawing sketches with a piece of scrap paper from my school art class. I often drew such drawings and was inspired by the style of writing old Japanese and Chinese characters.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I always think that reality is not what we see. I paint with the belief that reality hides sadness, while fantasy reveals joy. and My paintings are often landscape-themed. Because I travel and paint, I use special places in the world as subjects for my paintings. I also try to show the world the beauty of the world and the importance of the environment through my paintings.” Trying to make a difference by adding lines and shapes to them rather than seeing them in reality.”
How would you describe your work?
“My paintings are a combination of the real world and the imaginary world. I always try to create a new reality from existing realities. I explore the concept of creating a new reality from the familiar, using the urban environment as my canvas. The streets, with their buildings, vehicles, streetlights, and people, become my playground - each offering a new layer to add, each corner hiding an untold story. I like to venture through these spaces, not just observing, but transforming them. I add unexpected shapes and vibrant new forms, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. This fusion of the real with the unreal is my way of crafting a fresh narrative, one that pulses with energy and curiosity. In Sri Lanka, I’ve come to be known as the ‘Vagabond Artist’ - a title that suits my roaming nature, constantly seeking to blur the boundaries between what is seen and what could be.”
Which artists influence you most?
“It can be said that I was inspired by studying the abstract shapes in Pablo Picasso's paintings helped me to abstract real-world shapes into my paintings and I was inspired by Malaysian artist Kia Kian Ching.”
“My paintings are often landscape-themed. Because I travel and paint, I use special places in the world as subjects for my paintings.”
What is your creative process like?
“As a travel artist, my creative process is deeply connected to the places I visit and the stories I encounter along the way. It begins with immersing myself in the environment - whether I'm wandering through bustling city streets or exploring quiet, hidden corners. The energy of a new place, its people, the architecture, the colours, and even the sounds, all spark something within me. Once I feel grounded in the surroundings, I take my easel, art supplies, and camera gear, and set up my drawing space and begin drawing.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“As a travel artist, I see the artist's role in society as a storyteller and a bridge between cultures. We capture the essence of places and people, offering new perspectives and fostering empathy through art. In today’s world, the role is evolving with technology - art can now connect globally, spark conversations, and inspire action. As artists, we’re not just observers, but active participants in shaping a more connected, reflective, and understanding society Also, I had worked as a cartoonist for several national newspapers in Sri Lanka, I was able to create positive attitudes in society through my political cartoons.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My recent exhibitions include Artful Struggles: Contemporary Art from Sri Lanka, The Gallery, Gateshead Library and ABLE : Sisil Fernando, Aylesbury Library Art Wall.”
