Nayanahari Abeynayake

Photographic Artist, Documentary Photographer, and Visual Storyteller

Life and Work

Nayanahari Abeynayake is a freelance photographic artist known for her impactful visual narratives that explore socio-political issues. Her work addresses critical themes, including racial discrimination and the struggles of marginalized communities, combining documentary photography with anthropological insight.

Born: Galle, Sri Lanka

Residence: Galle, Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Occupation: Freelance Photographer

Specializations: Documentary Photography, Political Photography, Anthropology

Nayanahari Abeynayake developed her skills at the Hegoda School of Photography under renowned Sri Lankan photographer Lal Hegoda . There, she nurtured a strong interest in photography's aesthetics, cultural significance, and history.

Her early work captured the essence of everyday life in Sri Lanka, intertwining politics, culture, and identity. As a freelancer, she has taken part in both solo and group exhibitions.

Exhibitions

Galle My Home

A feature at the Galle Literary Festival, this exhibition focused on the cultural and social life in her hometown of Galle.

These Are Not Dew Drops in Jaffna (2014)

This critically acclaimed solo exhibition explored post-war Sri Lanka and the impact of racial discrimination. The exhibition was showcased at theThe Lionel Wendt Art Centre in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and later traveled to the UK and France.University of Sri Jayewardenepura ,University of Kelaniya,University of Peradeniya ,University of Ruhuna,University of Colombo,Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka ,London Cultural Festival and Chalkhill Community Center,Paris Théâtre de Ménilmontant France

The People’s Voice is Louder (2023)

A collaborative project in partnership with the Chennai Photo Biennale, the Goethe-Institut, and the Alliance Française of Madras, this exhibition documented widespread protests during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. The exhibition was also featured at The Kochi-Muziris Biennale.

Artful Struggles (2023–2024)

A contemporary Sri Lankan art exhibition that brought together artists from across the country, showcased at Harrow Arts Centre in London.

SEQUELS Photo Exhibition (2024)

As one of eight photographers, participated in this major exhibition at the JDA Gallery,

where over 250 photographs were displayed, accompanied by interactive discussions on contemporary photography.

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