Nayanahari Abeynayake

Photographic Artist, Documentary Photographer, and Visual Storyteller

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.

Life and Work

Born: Galle, Sri Lanka

These Are Not Dew Drops in Jaffna (2014)

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 and refined her cultural and literary acumen. This foundational education, combined with her passion for anthropology, enabled her to document cultural and political narratives from a unique perspective.

Her initial projects focused on capturing the essence of everyday life in southern Sri Lanka, intricately weaving the connections between politics, culture, and identity. As a freelancer, She has participated in both solo and group exhibitions.

Exhibitions and Works

Nayanahari Abeynayake’s photography has been exhibited both locally and internationally. Her most significant works include:

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 Chaikhill 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 and 2024):

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

SEQUELS Photo Exhibition (2024):

As one of eight photographers, participated in this major exhibition at the JDA Perera Gallery,where over 250 photographs were displayed, accompanied by interactive discussions on contemporary photography.