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| Sunday, 19 January 2003 |
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Features |  |
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Versatility in arts and crafts : Ramyali Leelaratne shares her talent by LAKMAL WELABADA
Any time they can spare from the unending chore of being working women and mothers, is often devoted to the pursuit of creativity; usually in the field of arts and crafts. In this context the proverb 'the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world' could easily be amended to 'the skills hidden in the hand that rocks the cradle does marvels'. One such versatile woman balancing the versatility on very feminine shoulders is Ramyali Leelaratne. One time a secretary, then an administrative officer in the government service, today she is a full-time housewife who has also marked her name in the homecraft field in Sri Lanka. The Sunday Observer met Ramyali while she was conducting special lessons for widows of army soldiers and ex-lady-army personnel in Colombo. "The ability to share the knowledge of our talents is a blessing," she said with a smile.
Patchwork, fabric painting, ribbon embroidery, decoupage, crystal ornamental craft, papertole, pottery painting and many other homecrafts are among the list of Ramyali's creative output. A beautiful wall hanging done in a mixture of coconut shells, sea shells and bird feathers is a unique example of Ramyali's imagination given free reign. A black Kandyan saree with bright shaded patchwork pieces in red, orange and yellow is also an exquisite example of her creativity, as is yet another wall hanging with flowers in soothing shades (like pink, light blue and purple). Using the Decoupage technique, Ramyali has beautifully decorated a big clay pot with Leonardo Da Vinci's portrait - 'Virgin of Rocks'... Over the years, Ramyali has been rewarded for her versatility in arts and crafts. She was placed first in pottery painting at the Western Province Handicraft Competition and Exhibition in 1988 and the Tulip Fabric Painting Competition held in 1995 (for her wall hanging which carried an elegant design). She also won a merit award by taking part in a dress designer contest in 1987. Expressing her desire to hold an exhibition of homecraft with her students; ex-army-lady personnel and army widows, Ramyali identified 'talent, devotion and humanity' as the weapons of her success. |
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| Editorial | Security Produced by Lake House |
Sri Lankan women are versatile. There is no secret about that. They
adapt wonderfully at playing many different and diverse roles. They may
hold responsible posts in recognised establishments, be caring mothers,
loving wives and still find the time to devote to community service.
