SASKIA FERNANDO

As the Founder and CEO of Saskia Fernando Gallery, Saskia Fernando has spent more than sixteen years shaping the trajectory of Sri Lankan contemporary art both locally and internationally.

- By Rishini Weeraratne

Establishing the gallery at a time when the country's art landscape was largely focused on decorative practices and modernist traditions, she made a decisive shift toward nurturing contemporary voices. Her long-term investment in artist development, institutional engagement, and regional collaboration has positioned the gallery as Sri Lanka's most internationally visible contemporary art space. Through presentations at Frieze London, Art Dubai, the India Art Fair, and most recently Art Mumbai, she has built pathways for Sri Lankan artists to engage with global audiences and curatorial networks. Her work has been central to reshaping global perceptions of Sri Lankan art, advocating for a professionalized ecosystem, and ensuring that the country's contemporary practices are increasingly recognised within museums, biennales, and international art dialogues.

How has sustained visibility at major international fairs shaped the global perception of Sri Lankan contemporary art?

Consistent participation in the world's leading art fairs, where galleries are selected by expert advisory boards, has had a transformative impact on global perceptions of Sri Lankan contemporary art. These repeat presentations have established credibility for the artists we represent and have prompted collectors, curators, and institutions to pay attention to the energy emerging from Sri Lanka. The visibility has led to tangible outcomes such as features in international publications and collaborations with major galleries.

What does participating in Art Mumbai represent for Sri Lanka within the wider South Asian art ecosystem?