Pathum Sameera Sri Lankan, b. 1984

The Barefoot Gallery Colombo is pleased to present Mother, Junglefowl and Scarecrow, a solo exhibition by Pathum Sameera. Through his storybook-like illustrations, Sameera (b. 1984, Galle) captures the important role women play in Southern Sri Lanka’s rural agricultural landscape.

Drawing from his own childhood and the pivotal role his mother played in raising him, Sameera explores the shifting dynamics of gender roles triggered by the migration of men in search of labour. He comments on how this in turn has shifted the narrative of the women, particularly mothers, who have stepped into dual roles of “man” and “woman” within the household and community.

Illustrated in charcoal and ink, as well as vibrant acrylics, these works evoke both melancholy and wonder. Through a childlike lens, Sameera honours the resilience of village women, portraying them as everyday heroes who are quietly reshaping the rhythms of rural life.