Ranjith Perera

Sri Lankan Narrative Realist Capturing Cultural Identity through Oil & Charcoal. Ranjith Perera is a Sri Lankan artist known for his evocative oil and charcoal paintings that document the quiet beauty of rural life and local heritage. A self-taught painter inspired by master muralist David Paynter, Ranjith turned to art after a successful career in the rubber industry. His subjects — toddy tappers, mat sellers, temple dancers, and historical scenes — are rendered with classical technique and a vibrant postcolonial gaze.

With exhibitions at Lionel Wendt Gallery and features in the Sunday Times and Fiidaa Art, Ranjith’s work has been collected internationally. His paintings blend warmth, narrative intimacy, and expressionist influence, reflecting a singular vision of Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape.

One of his pieces was auctioned for LKR 3 million in support of rural education, reflecting the social resonance of his practice.

He currently lives and paints in Colombo.

Primary education at St Thoma's Preparatory School, Colombo and Trinity College, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Graduated from Peradeniya University, Sri Lanka with BA Economics, European History and Geography.
Studied under of Nadine David school of Art, former pupil of David Paynter.

2022 - present Fiidaa Art online collection
2008 - Art Fusion, Lionel Wendt, Sri Lanka
2006 - Thambani Gallery, Sri Lanka
2005 - Chitra Kala 3, Lionel Wendt, Sri Lanka
2003 - Chitra Kala 2, Lionel Wendt, Sri Lanka
2001 - Chitra Kala 1, Lionel Wendt, Sri Lanka (2001 solo debut)