Please update your browser for a better experience
X
abstract
news main
BEGINNINGS

As human beings we want to classify. This is how we make sense of the complex world around us. Yet categorization can be limitation. Once we put something in its metaphorical box, we are restricted by abstract edge and preconceived lid. We exist in the micro, trapped within walls. Definition the death of innovation.

To create unique concepts and expressive forms one must challenge this reductive way of thinking. The definitive ‘unit’ becomes redundant. We move from autonomy to synergy, boundary to overlap, singularity to simultaneity, individuality to multiplicity. Once we let in fluidity of thought, unknown horizons come into view. We explore. We take action. We learn.

The application of creativity within new conceptual paradigms is the language of innovation. This is the philosophical grounding for the collaboration between Artra and Balmond Studio.

Both parties were talking about innovation within the post-millennial artistic landscape. More specifically, we started exploring the perception of art as a discipline in Sri Lanka, its ‘apparent’ place within society and art’s connection with the individual. We were discussing the subject in very broad strokes, looking at a generalized and wider picture.

For many, art is something inaccessible, a mystery of sorts. Artistry is thought of as an almost intangible process, existing in a world belonging to the artists themselves and a select group of society. Old thinking dictates that art is non-vocational and therefore, an independent entity from the societal and economic mass.

A creative singularity living outside of the larger population as static discipline.

Yet artistry is inherent within the human psyche and spirit. In other words we believe that every person contains expressive and creative possibilities. It’s just a matter of tapping into, and unlocking, this potential. What if we could give people knowledge and comprehension? What if we could empower people with insight to start making artistic choices in their daily lives?

The seed of an idea was born.

We will bring art and design together to form an innovative language of expression open to all. This will be known as Art & Living – a new column and content stream across both Artra’s print and digital platforms. The content will be co-created and co-curated by Artra and Balmond Studio. With this fusion of artistic and design-focused organisations, all of our knowledge, experience, expertise and wider communities will synergise. The result? Insight and advice extracted from many minds from many places.

Our content will help people choose, experiment and explore creative possibility in the everyday. We hope to empower everyone to add an expressive mark on the world.

news main
news main
news main
news main
news main
abstract