After a year of research of the fashion, handloom and batik sectors in Sri Lanka, the Cultural Relations Platform announces a pilot training, as a form of “master class/experience” of European and Sri Lankan creatives coming together to master their craft and creativity.

The pilot training stems from the conclusions of the research that highlight the need to support and harness the creative community of Sri Lanka that already work and engage with the traditional and living crafts. The pilot training was guided by Robert Meeder, a professor of practice and was also seen as an opportunity to allow participants to network and share insights and experiences that work towards a collaborative creative community.

Content contributors, on the other hand, came from the pool of EU research participants with a Sri Lankan shared heritage, such as the UK/EU designer Ranura Edirisinghe (currently a textile designer at Burberry) and the Italian designer Andrea Brocca Senanayake, the world’s youngest couture designer. Both of whom share an additional personal connection with Sri Lanka; Ranura was born in Sri Lanka and grew up in the UK and Andrea is half Italian and Sri Lankan and grew up living between Italy and the Middle East.

For the pilot training, a combination of Sri Lankan companies who have participated in the research project (Barefoot, Kantala, Selyn) were invited to nominate “young creative” staff to participate along with additional freelance designers.

The activity also created an opportunity through a virtual/digital platform for permanent sharing, networking, and supporting the growth of young Sri Lanka talents. “Mastering” Sri Lankan craft for EU market” was implemented, coordinated and facilitated by the Cultural Relations Platform for the EU Delegation in Sri Lanka.

Image caption : Lady Gaga featured on the cover of Billboard magazine wearing Andrea Brocca couture

Recent Harper’s Bazaar cover featuring Andrea Brocca couture

Vogue Arabia, Andrea Brocca – the world’s youngest couture designer with Sri Lankan roots

Ranura Edirisinghe’s digitalized batik designs developed in collaboration with Sri Lankan artisans

Ranura Edirisinghe inspired by contemporary art and prints in collaboration with Sri Lankan artisans

Ranura Edirisinghe designs combining and redefining urban cool and contemporary silhouettes

Professor of Practice Robert Meeder leading the workshop and bringing together international designers with aspiring Sri Lankan creative talent

Professor of Practice Robert Meeder leading the workshop and bringing together international designers with aspiring Sri Lankan creative talent