Tangle illustration of drop initialby Deepthi Horagoda.

About Deepthi Horagoda...

I am a graphic designer, illustrator, author and translator based in Sri Lanka—home of Ceylon Tea, Cinnamon and Sapphires. My entry into art and design was truly providential.

In 1997 I was offered an apprenticeship by Gareth Jayawardene who was a trail-blazer
in advertising in Sri Lanka. His career spanned 47 years, out of which ten were spent at three advertising agencies in London. Having studied at St.Martin’s School of Art and Design, my mentor passed on to me a keen appreciation of typography. His dedication to work and meticulous attention to detail were exemplary. Working closely with my mentor for 10 ½ years left a lasting influence on my work ethic.

My graphic design work paved the way for translating and designing books. Since 2006,
I have translated, designed and illustrated a number of books on various subjects. They include children’s books, folk verses and folk stories, biographies of both historical and modern Lankan leaders, as well as several cookery books. Among them is a cookery book containing the special recipes of Sri Lanka’s last royal dynasty, and Sri Lanka’s first-ever cookery book for children.

Some years ago, I completed the London Art College’s Art in Graphic Design Diploma with Honours. The course provided me with the opportunity to draw and paint by hand whilst also experimenting with different media. As a result I developed a greater appreciation of traditional techniques—especially in the subject of illustration.

Apart from designing, illustrating and translating for others, I also create my own books for children. As an ardent lover of nature and animals, children’s books have a special place in my heart.

In 2018, due to my involvement in creating children’s books, I was invited to be a Joint Secretary of the Sri Lanka Section of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). Since then, I have been helping to develop and promote books, and a reading culture among Sri Lankan children and youth.

The saying, ‘Happy is he whose avocation is also his vocation’ describes me well. I feel truly blessed to be able to do what I love as my profession.