Shanilka Wimalasena and Ashinka Wimalasena are two teenage brothers have inspired by nature. They exhibited a major talent early on and has been drawing and painting ever since. They had their first art exhibition “Siblings” in 2005. Students of St. Peter’s College, Colombo, Shanilka (15) and Ashinka (14) are siblings born on the same day a year apart. Their closeness as brothers reflects in their work as well as their interests. They started drawing animals and birds very young. Their love and obsession about nature became a passion after they started working with the Young Zoologists Association at Dehiwala Zoo.

They believe the most important thing is to observe animals and birds, not just to see them on the surface, but to look deeply into them. They take photographs, careful notes of colours, shapes, textures, behavior patterns and relationships birds and animals have, with their environment on their frequent visits to national parks in Sri Lanka and Africa. Photography taken by them, their father and various wildlife photographers have inspired many of their paintings.

Though they prefer painting outdoors, their age does not allow them to have the full freedom they require. Therefore, they have to look for ways to make their own expressions and creativity in their work while reproducing some photographs.

The results of their sheer hard work, determination and talent is here for you to enjoy. Also, this book provides inspiration to children to take up challenges and get motivated to protect nature from an early age!!