News in brief

Demise of artist Somabandu Vidyapathy

A popular artist Somabandu Vidyapathy passed away yesterday, at the age of 82, at 'Kalapura' his residence in Mount Lavinia.

He painted several murals in various Buddhist shrines in the country. His outstanding painting was done at the Bellanwila Rajamaha Vihara.

He had been a most sort after costume designer, and was also responsible for the stage decors of many of the plays of late maestro Chitrasena.

Kalasoori Ariywansa Weerakody, a colleague of Somabandu Vidyapathy says, he can be considered one of the artists with varied talents, such as painter, art director and stage decor artist.

His services were obtained by a large number of art enthusiasts in the past. He leaves his wife Malathi Algama, daughter of popular Kandyan dance teacher Kiriganitha Gurunanse, two sons stage dancer and director Ravibandu Vidyapathy and Menubandu Vidyapathy.

---------

Architects annual sessions

THE Sri Lanka Institute of Architects will be holding its Annual Sessions and Trade Exhibition from February 22-26 at the BMICH.

Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, will inaugurate the National Conference on Architecture and 'Architect 2006' Members' and Trade Exhibition. This Trade Exhibition is a much look forward to event by the Industry as well as members' of the public.

Architect 2005 (last year) attracted more than 130,000 visitors during the 04 days.

The theme for the 2006 National Conference is "A National Identity in an International Context". The SLIA has invited world leaders of Architecture to participate in this National event.

Archt. Dr. Paul Hyett, Immediate Past President of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) will be the Keynote Speaker at the Inauguration of the Annual Sessions.

The National Conference will be held on February 23 and 24 at Committee Room 'B' of the BMICH. The Conference will be inaugurated by Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama. The Keynote Speaker at National Conference will be Archt. Raj Rewal of India.