‘Jaffna Man’
On a trip to Sri Lanka in 2003, I visited the village my father grew up in. I saw, for the first time, where that side of the family had its roots; In a quiet village in rural Jaffna.
Having grown up in London and unable to speak the Tamil language, I took advantage of the relaxed pace of life in the countryside and this man from Jaffna sat for a quick sketch and some photos. His face was weary from the strain of war, but yet he was willing to sit for this young stranger. That was the only exchange we had.
Jaffna Man NOT FOR SALE
Charcoal and pastels on paper
40 x 60 cm (unmounted)
2003