Metamorphosis Papiliones Ceylonensis, Sanath Herath’s first solo exhibition, is centered around the metamorphosis of Sri Lankan butterflies. This endeavor celebrates the themes of change and growth. The imagery of a butterfly undergoing metamorphosis encapsulates the idea that profound beauty can emerge from the embrace of change. At its core, this exhibition is an ode to the conservation of butterflies, seamlessly weaving art and awareness into one narrative. The featured butterflies portrayed, are either endemic to Sri Lanka or represent endemic subspecies. Each watercolor painting portrays not only their adult forms but also the crucial elements of their lifecycle. From the delicate eggs to larvae, from the pupae to the final, majestic butterfly, every stage is a testament to nature’s wonder.
Metamorphosis Papiliones Ceylonensis draws inspiration from the genius of diverse
artists such as Maria Sibylla Merian, Martin Johnson Heade, Elizabeth Blackwell,
John Cotton, G.M. Henry, Thomas E.T. Bond, Dorothy Fernando, L.G.O Woodhouse,
and George Van Der Poorten. These visionaries pioneered the transformation of
scientific drawings into art and dedicated their lives to the study of butterfly fauna. A
tradition that this exhibition hopes to continue.
The selection of butterflies for this exhibition is guided by the criteria of the IUCN
Red List, categorizing them as Least Threatened, Threatened, and Critically
Endangered. This deliberate selection serves as a reminder of the delicate balance
within ecosystems, where butterflies play a pivotal role.
Metamorphosis Papiliones Ceylonensis transcends not only celebrates the
transformation of Sri Lankan butterflies but also serves as a call for their protection.
It is a reminder that the beauty of change is all around us, waiting to be embraced
and conserved for generations to come.
