A tribute to Solias Mendis

Solias Mendis

Walimuni Solias Mendis (June 17, 1897–September 1, 1975) was a renowned Sri Lankan artist primarily known for his temple paintings, accomplished in a neo-classical style. A native of Mahawewa, Madampe in Sri Lanka, Mendis was intended by his parents to become an Ayurveda Physician, but he was drawn to art. In his early years, he worked and trained alongside his uncle Memonis Silva, himself a master painter. Once accomplished himself, he began painting murals in Buddhist temples. Later, Mendis visited India to examine the works of Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Bagh Caves and Sarnath, which inspired him to mingle the techniques of Indian Buddhist art with the traditions of Sinhalese classical art, eschewing the then prevalent European traditions. At around the age of 30, he undertook a twenty-year project to complete the Kelaniya Vihara murals.