Visually arresting no to violence
“The Elimination of Violence against Women” was the theme of an art exhibition to mark the end of 16 Days of Activism for Elimination of 
Violence against Women, presented by the US Embassy in collaboration with the Faculty of Visual Arts of the University of Visual and Performing Arts. The exhibition was held from December 10 to 16 at the JDA Perera Gallery and over 90 students showcased their talents.
The power of each exhibit is proof of the saying, that a picture speaks a thousand words. Visually arresting, some disturbing like the painting of a naked woman bound by barbed 
wire which also coils around arrack bottles, there were also eye-catching digital posters with slogans like “She is not a drink!” and a sculpture of a nude female torso made entirely of discarded metal bolts.
The inauguration began with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp. Certificates of participation were awarded by the Charge d’ Affaires of the US Embassy, Andrew Mann.
“We must do more to end violence against women on all fronts. Art has the ability to move people in a way that can’t be done in any other medium. Therefore, there is no better way to address this problem,” said Mr. Mann.
The US embassy also organised an awareness programme on November 25 for the students of the University of Visual and Performing Arts at the faculty auditorium. The organisers hope to exhibit the art works at the American Centers in Kandy and Jaffna.
“This is not only an art exhibition but a social service that carries a great message,” said a visual arts student, Gandhari Gunasekara.