Gayani Ariyaratne – Found in Paradise
Gayani Ariyaratne is the artist behind the first Paradise bull as part of this summer’s Bulls in the City art trail across Birmingham.
She’s an artist used to working in a wide range of mediums, including glass, sculpture and paper. Originally from Sri Lanka and now residing in north Birmingham, Gayani embraces the roles of both artist and educator.
Her art serves as a reflection of her deep-seated love for the environment as well as her personal commitment to climate advocacy. These influences have fed into her bull, Found in Paradise, which reflects both feelings of home and the wider world.
Gayani is also no stranger to Paradise, having previously worked on the estate’s Big Sleuth bear in 2017 when more than a quarter of a million pounds was raised for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Above all, her new sculpture is a celebration of nature.
Gayani explains:
The bull holds a very special place in the hearts of Brummies. It symbolises strength, resilience, and the city’s indomitable spirit. My bull, Found in Paradise, invites people to see more than just the strength of a big, bustling city – the bull also protects his herd with determination and pride.
“Like Birmingham, my bull has lots of different aspects and represents a natural place as well as an urban one, and a space full of abundance. The naturalistic look to the bull also reflects the city’s one million trees and what they bring to our shared environment.
“The bull is a noble creature held in great regard by many cultures. Birmingham and the bull share a long and historic relationship and I wanted my bull to make people stop and think about the animal’s place in the city it represents. I’m also inspired by the renowned Birmingham surgeon and botanist William Withering who made vital contributions to his fields in the eighteenth century, and I have worked in references to his work too.
“Paradise is an inclusive destination for all, and I hope Found in Paradise reflects that, as well as raising interest in the brilliant work of Birmingham Hospice. Rather than being lost in paradise, I believe we can all find our own piece of paradise here in the heart of Birmingham.”
Found in Paradise will be available for all to see and visit outside Dishoom at One Chamberlain Square from 16 July until 14 September. To find out more about the Bulls in the City and to learn more about the work of Birmingham Hospice, visit www.birminghamhospice.org.uk/trail/