The Cuban Connection

With the intention of further strengthening the bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Cuba, an agreement covering activities focusing on the preservation, development and knowledge dissemination in the fields of Performing and Visual Arts in both countries was recently signed at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts (UVPA) in the presence of Florentino Batista Gonzalez, Cuban Ambassador to Sri Lanka, and Prof. Ariyarathne Kaluarachchi, Vice-Chancellor of the UVPA.

Subsequent to the signing of this Agreement of cooperation, a joint exhibition of Cuban and Sri Lankan Art was held at the J.A.D. Perera Art Gallery of the University. The Guests of Honour for this event were Minister for Special Assignments, Prof Sarath Amunugama, the Cuban Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Florentino Batista Gonzalez and Prof. Mohan de Silva Chairman of the UGC. The weeklong painting exhibition showcased some marvellous exhibits encapsulating the themes of nationality and culture produced by renowned Cuban as well as Sri Lankan artists. Many distinguished attendees who came to witness this highly successful event, appreciated the effort made by the UVPA's Vice-Chancellor for his dynamic role in initiating activities that constantly help promote Sri Lankan Art forms both locally and internationally.