Embroidery Art: A great healer

by Lakmal Welabada

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'Embroidery Art' an exhibition of needle crafts of Sharmali de Silva and her students will be held at the National Art Gallery on March 15 and 16 from 10 a.m.

Some exquisite designs done on jute with ribbons and threads which can be used as wall hangings and tapestries will be on display.
Sharmali is a courageous woman who has overcome many obstacles. "Once I was under tremendous stress. It was due to my husband's death, and it was terrible to live without him," says Sharmali. "My two sons have been there with me, but the sorrow I have experienced had been haunting my life throughout. I used to get irritated for the slightest thing. And while I was in this condition I got myself engaged in embroidery work. It was a great healer.

Today, I am able to share my artistic thoughts with many others who come to learn the craft from me," she says.

Sharmali who started her creative work with a piece of thread and cloth, today conducts classes on ribbon embroidery as well. "Try and see; you may not be knowing how talented you are.

Needlecraft is a pleasurable pastime which you can expand into a business venture as well," says Sharmali.