“Islands’ Rhythms: Sardinia & Sri Lanka” – A Monochrome Symphony of Island Cultures Captivates Audiences in Türkiye

“Islands’ Rhythms: Sardinia & Sri Lanka” – A Monochrome Symphony of Island Cultures Captivates Audiences in Türkiye

A striking monochrome photograph exhibition titled “Islands’ Rhythms: Sardinia & Sri Lanka”, featuring the evocative work of acclaimed Italian photographer Dario Coletti, recently made a powerful impression in Türkiye through back-to-back exhibitions in Ankara and Istanbul. The initiative was jointly organized by the Embassies of Italy and Sri Lanka in Ankara, with the support of the Çankaya Municipality, the Consulate General of Italy, and the Honorary Consulates of Sri Lanka in Istanbul, Nevşehir and Izmir.

“Islands’ Rhythms” is a visual and sonic journey—exploring the cultural and environmental parallels between Sri Lanka and Sardinia. Through 40 monochrome photographs capturing intimate portraits, ritual scenes, and sweeping landscapes, Dario Coletti brings together two geographically distant yet culturally resonant islands exploring common themes of identity, resilience, tradition, and transformation. To enrich this sensory journey, the exhibition was complemented by traditional and contemporary music from both Sardinia and Sri Lanka.

During his speech, Italian Ambassador Giorgio Marrapodi praised the initiative as “a beautiful example of cultural diplomacy,” emphasizing the shared values and aesthetic sensibilities of the two island nations.

In Istanbul, the opening was enriched by a vibrant fashion vignette featuring Sri Lankan designer Dhamique Amarasekara, who showcased fusion wear crafted from Sri Lankan handloom fabric, dumbara weaving, pillow lace (beeralu), batik, combined with Turkish traditional designs and trimmings.

Guests in Ankara were treated to Sri Lankan delicacies, while in Istanbul they additionally had Italian cuisine-offering a sensory celebration of both cultures.

In both cities, the exhibitions were elevated with traditional and contemporary music from Sri Lanka and Sardinia, creating an immersive atmosphere.

These exhibitions served as both a cultural celebration and a personal farewell to Ambassador Dissanayake, who will complete her diplomatic posting in Türkiye on 06 July.

Embassy of Sri Lanka

Ankara

03 July 2025

 

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