Ran Thambili is a modern visual reinterpretation of classic Ceylon matchbox designs. The illustration celebrates the Ran thambili, the special king coconut known for its vibrant golden hue and deep roots in Ayurvedic tradition. Its natural brightness becomes a metaphorical bridge to sunlight and fire (‘Ran’), two primal sources of energy. By pairing the fruit with motifs inspired by old matchbox art, the concept honors both Sri Lanka’s visual heritage and the symbolic power of light and life.

Mahesha Kariyapperuma explores diverse ecologies, botanical life and endangered animal habitats across the island through interactive media, wearable art, and installations. She also critically explores social codes of Kandyan culture, as well as gender norms and societal hierarchies in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. Her projects often animate gaming techniques as tools for awareness building and education. Kariyapperuma inventively engages with the intersections between ecology, aesthetics, and social commentary through sustainable materials and communal philosophies.

Printed with archival pigment ink on 230gsm pro premium matte archival quality paper.