Abstract:
Landscape Architecture is the imaginative blend of art and science in
the design of environments for people. As the world population is increasing
and new problems are created that involves human living space, Architects,
Landscape Architects have the task of transforming their needs into built form.
In this regard, landscape Architecture provides a sense of place and support
of all types of human activity. Landscape Architecture in particular, helps the
man-made fit in harmony with the environment while promoting health and
well-being, enriching lives aesthetically and spiritually, providing economic
opportunities, and creating a legacy that reflects and symbolizes culture and
traditions.
One of the most powerful elements in making a built landscape a
meaningful space was the artifact. By definition, an artifact is "any object made
by human beings, especially with a view to subsequent use" The particular use
of artifacts had changed over the years, but the significance of an artifact has
not lost ground. Landscape architecture has a long history and its gradual
evolution might have influenced artifacts in a greater scale. In a similar way
the trends in art were influential too. The first and foremost step in studying
this use of artifacts should be to identify the Changers and its causes.
Throughout history the landscape architecture of Sri Lanka changed
and developed through many stages, with different socio-economic influence.
The landscapes enhanced by such artifacts can be seen in historical
sanctuaries, monasteries, parks and many other places round the country.
In addition, artifacts, used in the historic periods of Anuradhapura,
Polonnaruwa, Yapahuwa, Kurunegalla and Kotte, can be recognized with
its usages, the ways of using these artifacts in landscapes can be also
recognized according to those specific periods.
