Breathing exquisite life into wood

The history of artisanal handicrafts in Sri Lanka can be traced back thousands of years. But many of the stone and wood carving techniques visible today can be attributed to the arrival of Saṅghamittā, the venerable Buddhist nun who came from India to spread the teachings of Lord Buddha. The knowledge exchange on craftsmanship that inevitably happened along with the spread of Buddhism, spurred on a new wave of intricate work that can still be observed in ancient cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya & Kandy. Even though the practitioners of the craft have diminished in the years since, the skill has not. The masters of these traditional arts and techniques still do exist, if you know where to look for them. The Sri Lanka Wood Carving Centre is an eye-opening experience into the world of wood carving with traditional tools and methods. The skill with which shapeless blocks of wood come alive as exquisite animals, people, and wall hangings, without even a shred of sandpaper used to smoothen the surfaces, is a thing of beauty to behold. Do let us know if you would like to watch and experience these techniques, and we will sort it out!