Shanila completed her Master of Arts major in Fine Art at Curtin University. She is an award-winning Contemporary Western Australian Artist, who has a rich and diverse background in the world of art.

Shanila’s current artistic endeavors incorporate asemic writing, a wordless form of expression that transcends semantic boundaries. This unique approach seamlessly intertwines with the layers and textures in her artistic creations, liberating her from the confines of conventional language rules. Through this primitive yet powerful form of writing, Shanila forges a distinctive artistic language that resonates beyond mere words, creating a singular and authentic self-expression.

Born in Sri Lanka, Shanila embarked on her artistic path by pursuing Fine Arts majoring in painting in Malaysia. Her dedication and talents were recognised when she received a Gold medal for best Fine Art student.

Shanila, an accomplished artist with extensive experience has showcased her work in both Sri Lanka and Australia. Her clientele spans both local and international art enthusiasts. As a dedicated high school art teacher in Sri Lanka, and as an Art instructor in Australia, she has skillfully imparted her knowledge and passion for art. Her commitment and diligence was rewarded with a Distinction in her Graduate Certificate in Design and Art.

Shanila’s professional journey extends beyond the canvas. She has been working in the Government sector for over a decade. Currently, she balances her artistic pursuits with her role as an Arts Studios Coordinator.

Shanila’s passion for art, her diverse experiences, and her commitment to creativity make her a remarkable artist and educator.

Group and Solo Exhibitions

  • 2024 Curtin art degree show,WA

  • 2024 Canning art awards group exhibition,WA

  • 2024 30x30 group exhibition, Curtin University research space, WA

  • 2024 & 2023 One Five Zero group exhibition, Rook ARI , WA                                

  • 2023 Little While group exhibition, Art Source, WA  

  • 2022  Pete Vile Drawing prize group exhibition, Curtin University, ,WA                   

  • 2017 Act Belong commit Canning Art Awards  group show, WA   

  • 2017 Canning Show group exhibition, WA                              

  • 2012 SAW group exhibition, Central Institute of Technology Gallery, WA      

  • 2011 Observing the Human Form group exhibition Midland Junction Centre, WA

  • 2011 City of Melville group exhibition, WA    

  • 2011   Mosman Treasures group exhibition, WA                                                                    

  • 2011 Canning Arts Awards group exhibition, WA                       

  • 2010   Artonia Gallery group exhibition display, Sri Lanka                  

  • 2009 Sharika Gallery group exhibition display, Sri Lanka                    

  • 2007  Lotus Pond solo exhibition, Gandara Gallery, Sri Lanka               

  • 2006 Ethnic Fusion solo exhibition, Harold Peris Gallery, Sri lanka                

  • 2004 Ethnic Splendor solo exhibition, Lionel Wendt Gallery, Sri Lanka                                       

  • 2003 Experimental studio artworks exhibited at the MIA Gallery, Malaysia    

  • 2003 Germany in Mind group exhibition, Atrium National Art Gallery, Malaysia                    

  • 2002   Experimental studio artworks displayed at the gallery MIA, Malaysia                            

  • 2001 Young Contemporaries exhibition, George Keyt Foundation, National Art Gallery of Sri lanka        

  • 2000 Perceptions solo exhibition, Lionel Wendt Gallery, Sri Lanka       

  • 1996  Holy Family Convent group exhibition, Lionel Wendt Gallery, Sri Lanka                           

  • 1994 Image of Japan group exhibition, Colombo Public Library, Sri Lanka                                                                                                                                          

AWARDS

  • 2022 2nd place winner together with the CECAT team at the RECLAIM” Recycle Art Competition, organised by NMHS Climate and Sustainability

  • 2020 Awarded Distinction for Graduate Certificate in Design and Art at Curtin University ·

  • 2020 Letter of Commendation for Academic Achievement in semester 1 2020 -School of Media, Creative Arts & Social Inquiry Board of Examiners, Curtin University.

  • 2017 Champion Certificate for Mixed Media Painting & Drawing category-Canning Show WA

  • 2017 Act-Belong-Commit Canning Art Awards, People’s choice award, WA

  • 2013 Finalist at the BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year competition – International artist category- Birds

  • 2011 “Observing the human form” art competition at the Midland Junction art center - People’s Choice award, City of Swan

  • 2011 Special recognition award ‘Animals’ & ‘Botanicals’ Light, space & time - Online gallery, USA

  • 2003 Awarded a Gold Medal for best Fine Art student and received certificates for excellence in each semester in three consecutive years at Malaysian Institute of Art, Malaysia

  • 2002 Consolation Award - Goethe Institute international- art competition, Kuala Lumpur.

Publications

https://www.sundaytimes.lk/060507/mirror/relish%20the%20fushion.htm

https://archives.dailynews.lk/2006/04/24/fea07.asp

https://www.sundaytimes.lk/000430/mirrorm.html

https://ispide.wordpress.com/2008/01/23/shanila-de-alwis/

https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2006/04/30/fea32.html

Curtin Alumni -Creative Spotlight at Curtin Commons in May 2025

Work Experience

  • Visual Artist

  • Arts Studios Coordinator

  • Senior Art Instructor

  • Art Instructor

  • High School Art Teacher & Class Teacher