By: Staff Writer
October 04, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s creative and craft industry has achieved a breakthrough with the launch of SEVA, a transdisciplinary cultural diplomacy project that bridges global artistry with local heritage while unlocking the island’s vast untapped artisan trade potential.
Developed under the EU–Sri Lanka Matchmaking Program, in partnership with the Export Development Board (EDB) and supported by the European Union, Cultural Relations Platform (CRP), University of the Arts London (UAL), British Council, and The Institute of Future Creations (TIFC), SEVA also carries the endorsement of the Italian Embassy in Colombo.
Spearheaded by Italian visual artist Caterina Roppo, SEVA explores the connections between art, mental health, and post-traumatic resilience within marginalised craft communities. During her residency, Roppo collaborated with renowned Sri Lankan textile designer Sonali Dharmawardena, blending contemporary art with traditional batik and textile craftsmanship.
The collaboration reached a milestone in July 2025, when the SEVA short documentary premiered at Italy’s Terrae International Film Festival, marking the first time Sri Lankan batik was showcased to an international film audience. The film’s global recognition continued with its selection for the III Salón de Videoarte Textil in Buenos Aires, Argentina, positioning Sri Lankan craftsmanship as a serious contender in the global creative economy.
This initiative comes at a crucial time when the global craft and textile market, valued at over $700 billion, is experiencing growing demand for authentic, high-quality artisan goods. Industry models such as India’s booming $222 billion textile sector projected to reach $350 billion by 2030 — demonstrate how heritage, design innovation, and strategic partnerships can transform traditional crafts into global luxury assets.
Project Lead and TIFC Co-Founder Robert Meeder said SEVA has been instrumental in “building trust and shared understanding,” proving that Sri Lanka’s creative sector can produce “world-class, socially engaged work with commercial potential.”
Artist Caterina Roppo added, “SEVA is about turning vulnerability into strength. My time in Sri Lanka showed how creativity rooted in heritage can open new market pathways, ensuring the craft sector thrives culturally and economically.”
UAL’s Hannah Middleton noted that SEVA “creates meaningful social and cultural impact while enhancing international visibility,” while Sonali Dharmawardena emphasised how the collaboration honoured local craftsmanship and expanded global trade opportunities.
With rising global demand for artisanal products, experts stress that targeted investment, design innovation, and branding could elevate Sri Lanka’s craft sector into a premium export segment, generating rural employment, empowering women and youth, and preserving traditional skills.
As SEVA illustrates, with sustained collaboration, creativity, and strategic market positioning, Sri Lanka is poised to transform its craft heritage into a global cultural and economic powerhouse.
