Mask Workshop and Museum in Sri Lanka: 

Mask making is a popular tradition in Sri Lanka. Many Sri Lankan mask artisans ply their trade along the Western, South Western and Southern coasts of the island. Of these, the Ambalangoda area on the South Western coast of Sri Lanka is renowned for its talented artisans. Ariyapala and Sons is an important landmark in the town of Ambalangoda that famed for its history and expertise mask carving and culture. And the best place to get your fill of mask lore is the Ambalangoda Mask Workshop and Museum is Sri Lanka.

The AmbalangodaMask Workshop and Museum is Sri Lanka: About Ariyapala & Sons

This institution which has remained in the Wijesuriya family for five generation serves as a cultural center with a small library, mask workshop and mask museum. The center was named after one of the Wijesuriya family ancestors Ariyapala Wijesuriya Gurunnanse who was one of the most famous master craftsmen of Sri Lanka.

With the disappearance of the traditional beliefs that form the basis of the Sanni Yakuma (devil dance) and the increase of digital media causing a lack of interest in traditional plays (Kolam Dance) the Sri Lankan traditional mask culture has practically disappeared. Once treasured by museums and private collectors, mask carving is on the decline with the only remaining aspect being a cottage industry focused on tourism.

Of the formerly famed old families of mask master craftsmen, only the Wijesuriya (Wijesooriya) family continues to uphold the tradition of mask making and cultural plays. In addition, in order to create a lasting footprint for Sri Lankan heritage they have taken upon themselves the task of making all the 120 Sri Lankan traditional mask designs.

At the Museum, visitors can leisurely keep a watch of traditional mask craftsmen busy at work and they can also view the masks put on display. These masks portray various vibrant characters such as demons, gods, heroes and villains who appear in traditional mask dances. You will have the opportunity to be lost in a world of bygone charms.

 The Museum

The mask museum has many displays of masks and other items such as primitive tools used to make masks. Though the entire 120 masks cannot be displayed due to lack of space, two entire collections belonging to the Sanni Yakuma ritual, and the Kolam Dance are displayed here.

The Library

The mask library is the only one of its kind in Sri Lanka. It has anthropological records on the history of mask making and the traditional performances for which masks are used in Sri Lanka. It is a treasure trove of knowledge for history lovers and has to be visited

Ambalangoda and its mask museum are fun and unique places to visit with sunny white beaches and interesting cultural quirks.