Just the way you are Print

Anushka Prasad is a Sri-Lankan born artist. From his formative years, he recalls not a time he has felt more fulfilling and rewarding than when he has held the paintbrush. Having spent equal parts of his life and career in Asia and Europe, his artworks are influenced by his exposure to a multitude of rich and sophisticated cultures. Thus, his artworks display a certain je nai sais quoi, which perhaps could best be described as a unique blend of the best of East & West. Anushka believes that nature is relentlessly relating a silent but salient message to those who are sensitive enough to perceive it. So he enjoys painting scenes of nature but often with a peculiar twist intended to arouse curiosity in the observer's mind, inviting them to each assign a special meaning of personal significance to the artwork. Having renounced a lay life, he returned to Sri Lanka at the age of 30 and now lives amongst Buddhist monks in a forest monastery. At the monastery, away from the hustle and bustle of his previous life, he spends most of his time in meditation and spiritual practice striving for enlightenment. In his spare time, he produces the artworks you will see here. From time to time, you may be able to pick up artworks inspired by his experience with the monks at the monastery. All proceeds from the sale of these artworks are entirely donated to provide food, medicines, robes and shelter for the resident monks and visitors to the monastery. Anushka believes in making this personal contribution to this worthy cause because of the service the monastery renders to the communities it affects and invites you to consider being part of it. Jethavanarama Buddhist Monastery (JBM) is a state-registered organisation whose purpose is to heal local and global communities wounded with social discord by spreading the universal message of harmony, compassion and loving-kindness among all human beings. It aims to promote ethnic, cultural and religious coexistence, particularly during these challenging times. In addition, its current projects include establishing a drug rehabilitation programme, a home for orphaned children, and a youth development programme to prevent young people from becoming victims of substance abuse and pornography. JBM is home to just over 100 monks and novices aged 14 and above, who alongside working on their personal liberation, work hard to reach affected individuals and communities both locally and internationally.