Gihan Mackay

The Journey

Born in Kandy, Sri Lanka, my journey began with a childhood fascination for creating art, molding ideas into tangible forms. In 2002, while I was in school, I conceptualized and designed my first event, which led me to become the anti-disciplinary artist I am today. Since then, a focus has emerged on curating music and art events. Now my work leans towards creating awareness about sustainability, societal issues and civic engagement.

I aim to blend creativity with advocacy, making a meaningful impact on both the arts and society.

I have a good understanding of the hardship that everyday Sri Lankans go through, as I come from a working-class family and my mother was an artist who gave up her career and became a wedding dress tailor so she can sustain our family. I used to work with her so I could earn money to buy my first computer and learn design. I traveled every weekend to Colombo to learn design, and because of financial hardship, I started working in customer care and invested my personal time and funding towards my arts and learning brand design by freelancing.

Non-Sol - Anatta 297 mm x 420mm 160 GSM Pen on Wood Pulp paper

Power to the People artwork chosen for Open Access Book Cover about the 2022 Sri Lankan Economic Crisis!

18.07.2024

Book Cover Design for departed Anthropologist Malathi de Alwis

14.02.2022

I contributed to Vagabond Ceylon Co. a brand that promoted sustainable living and innovation.

In the realm of freelance brand design, my work extends beyond aesthetics to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through comprehensive marketing strategies. Influenced by the timeless appeal of vintage advertising, I infuse projects with a visionary approach that transcends conventional boundaries, integrating artistry into every strategic decision. This fusion aims not only to enhance brand visibility but also to evoke deeper connections and lasting impressions within the contemporary marketplace.

Made In Ceylon

I organized A 2-day community building Festival in Unawatuna to promote sustainable tourism with fitness activities a SME market, Kids Programs and activities, Beach and an Underwater Cleanups

04.11.2023

Promoting sustainable and niche tourism island aestival was organized in Ahangama with Surfing Competition that was consulted with the Surfing Federation. Hosting sustainable workshops and discussions with the help of tourist businesses in Ahangama.

06.04.2024

As a versatile musician, international tours in countries like India and Thailand have allowed me to explore themes of activism and introspection through music, connecting with diverse audiences on issues that matter. With a nomadic work style spanning Sri Lanka and beyond, I draw inspiration from diverse cultural landscapes to blend art and music seamlessly, enriching my creative process with depth and authenticity. Through event orchestration, musical compositions, and artistic endeavors, my mission is clear: to provoke thought, inspire change, and promote sustainable practices. By creating immersive experiences that resonate with audiences, I aim to foster a conscious society committed to social and environmental transformation.

Self-Funded Mini Documentary Series Directed and Produced by Me with the aid of Vidu Wi

WANT TO KNOW HOW TO SUPPORT ME?

Check out my music and label

Talk to me for a commission, a design service or you can buy some merchandise! All merchandises are on-demand, so talk to me directly and tell me what you want! Check out my Instagram pages. Most of them can be reprinted some are done for clients.

Thanmalwila Elephant Walk Clean-up 2021

Thank you!

CREATIVE COMMUNICATION

Made In Ceylon

Made In Ceylon

Made In Ceylon