Browsing by Author "Dissanayake, MK"

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item: Article-Full-text
Communicative factors in visual abstraction of a Kithul tree in an 18th century mural painting of Sri Lanka
(Department of Integrated Design, University of Moratuwa, 11/21/2024) Perera, WPSG; Dissanayake, MK
The semi stylistic tradition came to a peak in mural paintings of Sri Lanka during the 18th century along with an enormous distribution throughout the central and suburban Kandyan domain. Scholars have explored and interpreted the story lines, its history and elements of paintings for centuries. However, knowledge on the communication factor of visual abstraction is comprehended only to a minimal extent. Understanding the communication factor of these elements contributes to the consecutive exposition of historical evidence. This research aims to concentrate on ‘kithul tree’ which is identified as a unique foliage element in 18th century mural paintings to investigate the communicative factor in visual abstraction by studying the perception of present-day people. A drawing was reconstructed by hand painting, and used as a source to collect data and analyse based upon modern visual design principles. Thereafter the reconstructed drawing was exposed to participants in two different age categories 15-24 and 25-60 in equal ratios of male and female who are residents in Sri Lanka. The findings through interviews and guided questionnaires revealed the effective use of communication factor in the drawing based on the manipulation of a supportive socio-economic element; a toddy pot on a kithul tree, rather than restraining it to the original components of the tree; leaves and the crown.
item: Conference-Full-text
Key factors to consider when designing products to overcome the persistence of unsafe kerosene lamps among low–income households in Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Manawasinghe, MDRN; Ranasinghe, WMND; Dissanayake, MK
Even with advancements in alternative lighting technologies, a notable proportion of impoverished communities still use unsafe kerosene lamps for illumination. It exposes them to a myriad of dangers, including injuries, deaths, and accidents. the use of kerosene lamps is continued although developments in alternate lighting technology put human health and safety in danger. This research investigates the reasons behind the continued reliance on kerosene lamps among the residents of Waverley Estate Line Houses in Agarapathana, Sri Lanka. The study aims to discern and analyse the socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors contributing to the persistence of this perilous lighting practice. this study uses a mixed-method technique that combines focus group discussions with self-observation to gather qualitative data. The main obstacles identified are extreme poverty, large upfront expenses for legal electrical connections, ignorance about how to maintain alternate lighting options and cultural familiarity with kerosene lamps. Notably, fire risks are increased when flammable materials are used in domestic environments. The study highlights the need for multidisciplinary interventions, identifying key design considerations such as easy maintain and repair, community training initiatives, subsidised electricity connections, , and the development of affordable, safe lighting fixtures. It is also suggested that it is crucial to have long-term plans for raising living standards through economic development programs. These observations are intended to assist practitioners and policymakers in developing practical, long-lasting solutions that would lessen the risks of using kerosene lamps and enhance the wellbeing of these marginalised groups.
item: Conference-Full-text
Sustainable 3R initiative practices in the Sri Lankan large-scale leather footwear industry
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2023-12) Suriyarachchi, DP; Nugawela, CT; Dissanayake, MK
The leather footwear manufacturing process generates hazardous waste during production, which impacts sustainability. Due to this, industries tend to implement sustainable practices. This research focuses on identifying and recording the sustainable waste management practices of the large-scale leather footwear industry. Taking into account the industry complexity and requirements for doing an in-depth investigation, a single case study has been adopted. Working experience of 10 years in Industry and knowledge specific to the relevant production stage were key considerations in purposive sample selection in the study. Semi-structured interviews of 30-minute sessions are conducted in parallel to observational factory visits to improve the clarity of research findings. Interviews were conducted in Sinhala considering the workers' linguistic knowledge for data interpretation. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables is determined using the content analysis method. The current sustainable waste management practices were identified within the research study. The study revealed the findings on reducing, reusing, and recycling sustainable initiative practices of the large-scale leather footwear industry which can be adopted for small and medium-scale manufacturing sectors of the footwear industry in Sri Lanka.