Image:
Akhila Fernando
REIMAGINE II 2019
Batik (wax-resist dye) on cotton
127.5 × 90 cm
Collection of the Artist, courtesy of ARTMORE Australia
Tue 20 Oct – Sun 22 Nov 2026
Benalla Visitor Information Centre
14 Mair Street, Benalla
REIMAGINE – Infinite Forms is a collection of contemporary batik textile artworks that explores the visual relationships between the microscopic structures that form life, and the vastness of the universe.
Inspired by the interconnectedness of all things, the collection examines how similar patterns, forms, and rhythms exist across vastly different scales—from the unseen world of cells, nuclei, protons, and neutrons, to galaxies, nebulae, and the infinite cosmos.
Through abstraction, each work invites viewers to discover their own interpretations, whether they see celestial landscapes, organic forms, human anatomy, natural elements, or mythical imagery. The collection reflects the idea that the same fundamental patterns connect the microcosm of life with the macrocosm of the universe, revealing a shared visual language that transcends scale.
These artworks are created using the traditional batik wax-resist dyeing technique, a labour-intensive process that requires technical skill, patience, and careful planning. Molten wax is applied by hand using a variety of handmade tools to create intricate patterns and textures. Each artwork is developed through multiple stages of waxing, dyeing, drying, rewaxing, colour layering, wax removal, and finishing, with each layer carefully planned to achieve the desired visual effect. The wax acts as a resist, preventing dye from penetrating selected areas of the fabric while allowing successive layers of colour and texture to emerge.
Rooted in the rich traditions of batik, these works reinterpret the medium through a contemporary artistic approach, transforming a centuries-old craft into expressive textile art inspired by science, nature, and the cosmos. The result is a collection that honours the heritage of batik while demonstrating its continuing evolution and relevance in contemporary textile practice.
This exhibition invites audiences to contemplate the infinite cycle of existence, where every beginning holds an ending, and every ending gives rise to a new beginning.
About the Artist
Akhila Fernando is a Sri Lankan–Australian multidisciplinary artist based in regional north east Victoria, whose practice spans contemporary batik textiles, drawing, painting, photography, animation, and large-scale projection mapping.
Since establishing ARTMORE Australia in 2015, he has developed an interdisciplinary practice that bridges traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation, creating immersive visual experiences for festivals, public spaces, galleries, and community events. Since 2015, Akhila has presented his creative work at more than 30 venues across regional Victoria through exhibitions, large-scale public art installations, projection mapping events, workshops, and community arts projects. His projection mapping and animation works have featured in major regional events throughout Victoria, while his contemporary batik textile exhibitions have been presented in venues including Bendigo and Wangaratta.
Akhila’s artistic journey began in childhood, learning the traditional craft of batik from his father, Hemarathna Fernando, in the family’s home-based art workshop. Growing up surrounded by artists and the creative process, art became an integral part of everyday life, shaping his appreciation for both traditional craftsmanship and artistic expression. This early immersion continues to influence his practice today, where he combines the heritage of Sri Lankan batik with contemporary ideas inspired by science, nature, and the cosmos.
Beyond his practice, Akhila has made significant contributions to Victoria’s arts sector through community engagement and cultural leadership. He has served as an Emerge Hub Bendigo Ambassador and Community Facilitator with Multicultural Arts Victoria, supporting culturally diverse artists and communities, and has contributed to the assessment of arts funding applications as a Peer Assessor for Regional Arts Victoria in the visual arts. He previously worked at Wangaratta Art Gallery as a Gallery Officer and Technician, gaining extensive experience in exhibition installation, collection care, and gallery operations.
His multidisciplinary practice reflects an ongoing commitment to connecting cultural heritage with contemporary artistic expression, fostering community participation, and expanding the possibilities of both traditional and digital art forms across regional Australia. Through both his traditional batik practice and contemporary digital works, Akhila continues to explore innovative ways of celebrating cultural heritage while inspiring new perspectives through art.
