Colombo. August 5, 2025, a long forgotten piece of printing history came back to life at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts as the 1898 Albion iron printing press. Manufactured by Harrild & Sons in the early 1800s, the iron press was officially r-commissioned. The event marked a milestone in Sri Lanka’s printing heritage as well as education.

The event was hosted by the Faculty of Visual Arts, the only faculty in Sri Lanka solely dedicated to offering degree programs in Visual Arts. Established in 2005, the university is located at No. 46, Horton Place, Colombo 07.

At the center of this restoration is Shehan Fernando, (Consultant/Visiting Lecturer), whose commitment is to preserving printing history and turning that long-held aspiration into reality. Shehan’s vision, combined with the collaborative effort of all the lecturers, students of the Department of Printmaking, and his friends has turned the 1898 Albion Press into a living functional historical tool.

The event was graced by several distinguished attendees. including Prof. Rohan Nethsinghe, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Visual and Performing Arts; Dr. I.M. Thathsara Ilangasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Visual Arts; Prof. Chandraguptha Thenuwara; Prof. Susiripala Malimbada and Senior Lecturer K. Mahesh Tharanga, Head of the Department of Printmaking. Also in the attendance were all the lecturers from the Department of Printmaking, the heads of all Departments within the Faculty of Visual Arts, and Mr. Keith Schekkerman, a renowned letterpress printer, collector and conservator of letterpress machines and equipment from Australia. The gathering also included university staff members and students, whose presence highlighted the collective academic and creative spirit behind the restoration.

This event represents a powerful significance not only on heritage but also on technology and education as it serves as a living symbol of historical craftsmanship that bridges the gap between past and present in both visual communication and graphic arts.

This project undoubtedly opens a window for the future generations to witness Today’s power of fostering innovation as well as honoring tradition.

Department of Printmaking,
(Faculty of Visual Arts)
University of the Visual and Performing Arts,
Colombo 7,
Sri Lanka.