Katie Daws: Glimpses Of "The Island Of Serendipity" Sri Lanka

Carousel is proud to present Katie Daws' first solo painting show in its Gallery.

Finding solace and stimulus from the natural surroundings of Sri Lanka, Katie was inspired not only to relocate to the island from the clamour of London but also capture its beauty and essence on her travels with canvass, oils and easel.

'Since my early twenties, I have felt the draw of Sri Lanka. Working at the Tea Council in London as a young PA, I was always envious of its management executives flying off on their many visits to the Teardrop Island.  As I typed away in my little office, I would often imagine myself sitting on a manicured lawn sipping Orange Pekoe, whilst admiring the views of the tea estates of Nuwara Eliya.

Twenty-one years later I finally arrived with my family to help in an orphanage after the terrible Tsunami. I soon fell in love with both the country and its people.

Fast forward slightly and after several turbulent years in my personal life, I finally left my Andalusian home and returned to London. I was excited to be back in my home country once again but soon realized that I missed the peace and inspiration of a natural landscape. It was then that an idea popped into my head to paint my way around Sri Lanka and try and capture the richness and joy of a place that I find so inspiring.

Within days, I had shipped my easel, my oil paints, sketchpads and brushes to the other side of the world.  A moment of rashness that has rewarded me with the opportunity to capture my view and experience of the Sri Lanka I love.  The landscapes of Ella, the hustle and bustle of the many marketplaces, the familiar umbrellas - always open to protect against rain and shine - and the beautiful seascapes of Tangalle and beyond, have lifted my heart and settled my mind.”

Carousel is a creative hub in the heart of Marylebone.

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