Buddhism has played a leading role
in the art and work of George Keyt.From an early age he was drawn towards the teaching of
the Buddha and this influenced him in his works later in life.
He became greatly drawn towards Buddhism as soon as he understood the enduring appeal of
its basic concepts, and while yet a very young man, championed the cause of Buddhist
revival. He wrote profusely both prose and verse to Buddhist publications, While
contributing decorative drawings on religious subjects as well" George Keyt has
maintained a degree of individuality in his paintings from the start. His paintings have
covered a number of varied themes from Buddhist and also musical moods.
The Jataka tales (stories of the previous lives of the Buddha) have also been featured
extensively in his artwork. He has also done murals on temples in which the monastic,
court and village life of the old times are depicted. these paintings are of great
interest and rear quality.
George Keyt was a founder member of one of the most influential art groups in Sri Lanka in
1943, eight artist and keyt got together to from the 43 group in a number of European
countries from 1952 on wards.
Several of Keyts painting were taken to London for exhibition and have been lying there
for over 40 years. The George Keyt Foundations which was setup in 1988 to honor the artist
and promote his work, now trying to get these painting returned to Sri Lanka. The
foundation is also aiming to set up a modern art gallery to help to young and aspiring
artists and provide them a place to house their paintings.
The George Keyt foundation is situated at 42/5, Ananda Coomarasvamy Mavatha Colombo
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