Sri Lanka’s art history dates back more than 2,000 years and includes ancient temple paintings, rock sculptures of Lord Buddha and frescoes. Dambulla’ s ancient cave temple consists of a rock ceiling which is one large sweep of colorful frescoes, depicting Buddhist mythology, and the tales of the Buddha's previous births. This cave temple has the largest number of Buddha statues all housed in one place, including a 14m long, colossal figure of the recumbent Buddha carved out of the rock. The ancient sculptures of Lord Buddha at the Gal Viahara in Polonnaruwa cut into granite stone, date back to the 12th century. Sigiriya’s Rock Fortress is famous for the Sigiriya frescoes – ancient paintings of maidens that date back to the 5th century. Although only a few remain today, research suggests the entire western face of the Sigirya rock would have been covered with these frescoes.

In more recent times, Sri Lankan art has been enriched by renowned artists such as George Keyt, Ivan Peries, Richard Gabriel and Lionel Wendt. Contemporary artists include Senaka Senanayake, Jagath Weerasinghe, Druvinka, Muhanned Cader.  All have works on permanent display at the National Art Gallery, Sapumal Foundation, and the Lionel Wendt Gallery. They also hold exhibitions regularly in Colombo’s art galleries including Barefoot Art Gallery and Paradise Road Gallery Café. Up and coming young artists are encouraged to display their works at the annual `Kala Pola’ – an art fair that is held on Green Path in Colombo 7.  Stroll down Green Path and you will see young artists and students painting on the side walk and offering their creations for sale.