An evocative art exhibition, titled “Markuvin kalai ampalam” took place from March 13th to 16th in the Chinnakadai area of Mannar.
Organized by the students and family members of the esteemed Jaffna-based artist Mr. A. Marku, the exhibition featured a wide array of his paintings and sculptures, showcasing his artistic journey across various styles and eras.
Mr. Marku, born in 1933 in Gurunagar, Jaffna, pursued his education at St. Patrick’s College before making significant strides in the world of modern art.
A pioneer in modern painting within Sri Lanka’s Tamil community, his passion for art began early, receiving foundational training under artist S. Benedict and later completing a five-year program at the Colombo School of Fine Arts.
Between 1958 and 1967, Mr. Marku served as an instructor at the Vacation Art Society in Jaffna, a venture led by artist M. S. Kandiah.
He continued to teach at Hartley College, Point Pedro, and Kokkuvil Hindu College, instilling a love for art in countless students.
In the late 1960s, he revived the Vacation Art Society and eventually established it at his residence in the 1980s.
His commitment to art education was further demonstrated when he helped establish the CPA’s Fine Arts Institute.
Following his displacement in 1995, Mr. Marku relocated to Kilali, Vanni, and later Mannar, where he continued to create art and mentor aspiring artists.
Over the years, he produced more than a thousand paintings, and many of his students have gone on to become professional artists worldwide, continuing his artistic legacy.
