Essence, a 2022 publication by Sri Lankan author Danushka Kumarathunga, has captured the attention of both artistic and academic audiences with its innovative approach to visual design and storytelling. Released in Sri Lanka, the book is celebrated for its unique blend of art, design, and visual research, presented in a format reminiscent of Western magazines.
Set against the backdrop of the remote village of Udagaladebokka, Essence emerges from Kumarathunga’s research trip, guided by academics from the University of Peradeniya. The book serves as a tribute to the village’s people, their agricultural lifestyle, and the untouched beauty of their surroundings. This project, rooted in a desire to creatively reinterpret mobile technology’s role in print media, has redefined the conventional book format in Sri Lanka.
Innovative Design and Methodology
The book’s departure from traditional formats is marked by its adoption of a Western magazine layout. All photographs within Essence were captured using a hand-held smartphone camera under natural light, with post-production and editing performed using mobile applications like Snapseed and Lightroom Mobile. This approach not only preserves the authenticity of the images but also highlights the raw and emotional textures of rural life in Sri Lanka.
Upon its release, Essence was praised for its originality and aesthetic presentation, standing out among Sri Lankan design publications for its minimal reliance on professional equipment. The book resonates with readers interested in photography, design, and anthropology, and has been utilized as an educational reference in visual communication and ethnographic documentation.
Exploring Themes of Simplicity and Authenticity
The central theme of Essence revolves around “seeing the unseen”—capturing moments and lives often overlooked. Through minimalist yet immersive photography, the book highlights themes such as simplicity, endurance, authenticity, and the silent poetry of daily life. It portrays the everyday realities of rural villagers, including farming routines, traditional lifestyles, community resilience, and their relationship with nature.
According to Kumarathunga, the book aims to showcase the beauty in simplicity and the strength found in traditional ways of living. “It’s about appreciating the silent stories that unfold in the backdrop of rural Sri Lanka,” he explains, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage through visual storytelling.
Author’s Vision and Impact
Danushka Kumarathunga, a Sri Lankan artist, educator, and filmmaker, brings a multidisciplinary background in visual arts and communication to his work. His projects often explore the intersection of culture, technology, and social observation. With Essence, Kumarathunga combines his passion for visual storytelling with academic research and design experimentation.
The book’s impact extends beyond its pages, inspiring discussions on the role of technology in art and the importance of cultural preservation. By utilizing mobile technology for both capture and editing, Essence challenges traditional notions of professional photography and design, demonstrating that compelling art can be created with accessible tools.
Looking Forward: The Future of Visual Storytelling
The success of Essence has sparked interest in similar projects that blend technology with traditional storytelling methods. As mobile technology continues to evolve, the potential for innovative visual documentation grows, offering new ways to engage with cultural narratives.
Looking ahead, Kumarathunga plans to continue exploring the possibilities of mobile technology in his work, aiming to inspire others to see the world through a different lens. “The future of storytelling lies in our ability to adapt and embrace new technologies while staying true to the core of human experience,” he notes.
As Essence continues to gain recognition, it stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and its ability to transcend cultural and technological boundaries. The book not only captures the essence of rural Sri Lanka but also invites readers to reflect on their own perceptions of simplicity and authenticity in a rapidly changing world.
