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Island of Wonders
Click on the thumbnails at left to see a larger sample.
Click on the collections button above to return to the main menu. |
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01 Tenth Incarnation
To begin your journey through the ‘Island of Wonders' Collection, we dive below the waters that surround this magical paradise, in the blue sapphire ocean that is teaming with brilliant sea life.
We start with an underwater scene of a fish motif in vibrant shades of vermillion, gliding serenly through water plants and lotus that are seemingly alive with rhythmic movements of the ocean. Adding a finishing frame for this auspicious creature is a border of intricate line work of aquatic creepers and flowering lotuses flowing in infinity. In Hinduism and Buddhism, it is believed that the tenth incarnation of the God Vishnu was that of a fish once. According to the epic, the fish called Matsya, saved Manu (equivalent to Noah) from the great flood. In addition, a demon had stolen sacred texts from Brahma, the God of original creation, and hid the scriptures at the bottom of the ocean. Matsya, the fish incarnation, retrieved the sacred texts and returned them to Brahma. |
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02 Fauna's Bounty
Swimming in crystal clear waters to the shore, with the waves washing up onto the golden sand, a beautiful island awaits to be explored. Not far from the beach, a tropical forest heralds a welcome with a thousand bird songs echoing through the trees.
A bright and beautiful burst of colour, as a parrot perches to contemplate this fragrant delicacy in full bloom, nestled among the leaves. The birds are just one of the many beautiful children of mother nature. They are entertaining and refreshing to watch, when a pair or a whole flock perch in trees loaded with a bounty of blossoms to feast upon. We are but onlookers of another world, observing the frenzy and social chatter of these delightful creatures.
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03 Island Day
A new day dawns and your senses are alive with the sound of the waves and bird calls. The aroma of salt air and sweet perfumes of tropical and exotic flowers waft in the warm balmy breezes. Lush tropical fruits hang like jewels from their trees, ready to be picked, promising a delight for your palate, fit for a king and his queen. But here every man is a king, and woman a queen.
A collagé that brings together all the tropical hues of island life. Starting at the top, a soft sunrise provides the backdrop for a gentle awakening of hibiscus flowers, unfolding their deep pink petals. On the right, our life giving star climbs the blue topaz sky, smiling and extending its golden rays of sunshine to start and bless another day in paradise. At the left, ocean-kissed palm trees bear their plump rippened fruit of coconuts as the palm leaves sway in the sigh of a gentle sea breeze. Flanking the bottom of the design is an ornamental vase, called a prosperity pot, symbolising good luck and a life of plenty. Enhancing this omen is a profusion of creepers and leaves adorned by stylised hibiscus flowers, as a betoken that a piece of paradise is yours every day. |
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04 Pacific Narilata
Exploring the inner terrain of the island's jungle, you discover waterfalls, mountains and valleys with breathtaking views. A feeling of having stepped into a lost world, forgotten in the mists of time, imbues your thoughts. A magical presence surrounds you. Was this the paradise on earth created for Adam and Eve? Perhaps another world still exists here, untouched or unspoiled, deep in the heart of the island. A cradle for myths and legends that lie silently, awaiting to be discovered.
This design represents a motif based on a mythical flower with its origins in the Himalayas. Used widely in Sri Lankan art, a Narilata is an artist's impression of this flower. According to the eastern mythology, this rare and mystical flower appears in the form of a real human body when in full bloom. Here the flower is based on the female body from the waist up, while the bottom half is consisting of leaves and creepers that cradle the flower. A bare breasted beauty adorned with an island blossom in her hair, serenly gazes out from her enchanting place in the universe, flanked by delicate pink frangipanis while holding offerings of tropical fruits. Created in stylised features fitting to the Oceanic people, this Narilata is a first to be inspired by the Pacific islands. |
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05 Oceania Jewels
A simple daily scene of any island lifestyle. A village fisherman out to sea, with an afternoon sun sending forth his remaining light of the day. Tall palms slowly turning into elegant silhouettes along the shoreline. While below the waves, a brilliant catch of the day discovers the fisherman's hook. Lotus buds and creepers create an underwater garden along the ocean floor, while a wandering starfish stops to rest among the sea leaves.
Traditional way of life is still very evident among islanders. To hunt, gather or fish for one's meal makes one realise how abundant the earth really is for humans. It is a precious jewel in our solar system. The earth and everything in it, is our true natural resource for, in fact everything. The world is our garden, tend it with harmony, love and respect, and the fruits that we reap shall ever be abundant and filled with the life giving force.
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06 Punkalasa
Your journey through this ‘Island of Wonders' has come to its final stop. Thoughts of taking home one last souvenir to preserve your memories of this magical place, rise in your mind as you collect one more shell, one more blossom. However, Lotus Sunrise has the perfect way for you to keep the spirit of the island with you always.
A traditional symbol in Sinhalese art is the Punkalasa or prosperity pot. A sign of good luck and abundance, represented by an ornamental pot with flowers, creepers and mixed with animal motifs. Created especially, this Punkalasa is adorned with tropical blossoms, including the yellow frangipani for happiness, and two young Narilata buds (only petal framed faces are seen) to inspire the heart. Twin fish are added to bless one's daily bounty and good health. Nearing the base of the arrangement, are colourful shells that focus protective and harmonious energies in your home for a long, happy and prosperous life. Finally, this blessful Punkalasa is completed with a stylish border of aquatic foilage following a rhythmic pattern and sealed with shell motif amulets. |
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