Ima Bim Thera (Landmarks of a Coastal Islet)

“Ima Bim Thera – Landmarks of a Coastal Islet” can be described as a visual symphony, eloquently capturing the spirit of my native island. This documentary-style film intricately weaves together diverse landscapes and narratives, portraying the intricate connections between communities, nature, tradition, and heritage.

Conceived as the culmination of my four-year special degree in Image Arts at the University of Kelaniya in 2012, “Ima Bim Thera – Landmarks of a Coastal Islet” stands as a testament to my artistic journey. Over the course of 40 days, I, along with a dedicated crew of five friends, traversed the landscapes of Sri Lanka, delving into the rich tapestry of its communities. It marked a pivotal moment in my life as an artist, a period of immersion where I both wholeheartedly belonged and, at times, felt like an outsider.

As the Director, Cinematographer, and Editor of “Landmarks of a Coastal Islet”, I collaborated with Sampath Darshana, the Assistant Director, and Co-Producer, as well as Amitha Guruwela, the Music Director. Despite working within the constraints of an extremely limited budget, our resourcefulness and determination allowed us to achieve the desired effects. The documentary premiered at the Lionel Wendt Theatre, an achievement made possible with the support of Melwire Rolling (Pvt) Ltd and CameraLk, who generously funded the project.

The culmination of our efforts is the latest 45-minute edition of “Ima Bim Thera – Landmarks of a Coastal Islet”, a film that reflects not only our artistic vision but also the resilience of a dedicated team committed to making a compelling documentary.