The Economic History Museum of Sri Lanka
The Economic History Museum (EHM), owned and operated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, showcases the nation’s rich and diverse economic journey. Located in the historic Central Point Building in Colombo Fort, which first opened to the public in 1914, the building was acquired by the Central Bank in 2011 and underwent extensive renovations to house the museum. The Economic History Museum was formally opened in 2013 and highlights the evolution of currency, from ancient coins dating back to the 3rd century BC to modern banknotes and coins issued by the Central Bank, through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.
deliverables
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Museum branding and promotional visuals
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High-quality coin photography for exhibits and publications
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Print advertisements and brochures
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Exhibition display boards and banners
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Social media content and awareness campaigns
Challenge
To create a visual identity and promotional materials that honored the museum’s historical depth while appealing to a broad audience. The project demanded authentic, high-quality photography of historic currency, accurate exhibit visuals, and compelling marketing designs that could engage both educational and general visitors.
role
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Key member of the museum planning and design team.
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Led the design and direction of marketing materials, including advertisements, brochures, social media content, banners, and informational booklets.
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Directed and photographed the historic coin collection, producing high-resolution images used across exhibits, catalogs, and promotional campaigns.
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Collaborated with curators and CBSL teams to ensure historical accuracy and consistency in both visuals and messaging.
Approach
I combined authentic historical visuals with modern design sensibilities to create a cohesive identity for the museum. My photography of the coin collection emphasized detail and lighting to showcase the craftsmanship and historical significance of each artifact. This imagery formed the backbone of the exhibits and marketing materials. Through clean layouts, classic typography, and a sophisticated color palette, I ensured the designs mirrored the prestige and educational focus of the museum.
Stage One:
"FROM Purana to the Rupee"
The first stage of the Economic History Museum project is a currency exhibition titled "From Purana to the Rupee". Named after the ancient Sri Lankan coin “Purana,” the exhibition traces the evolution of currency on the island, from early trade coins to modern-day rupees, showcasing the rich economic history of Sri Lanka.
From Purana to the Rupee – Publication
Launched parallel to the exhibition “From Purana to the Rupee,” the trilingual hardcover edition presents the fascinating story of Sri Lankan currency in simple and accessible language. Designed especially for exhibition visitors, with a focus on school children, the book serves as an enduring educational resource that captures the island’s rich monetary heritage from ancient times to the modern day.
The cover features a silhouette of an ancient coin rendered in spot varnish, reflecting the blend of history and design that defines the publication.
Stage Two:
Expanding the Museum
In Step Two, we invited the public to help build the Economic History Museum’s collection. People contributed artifacts, coins, documents, trade items, and photographs, while experts volunteered their knowledge. This collaborative effort is shaping a fully-fledged museum that preserves Sri Lanka’s economic heritage for future generations.
Opening Ceremony of Stage One: "From Purana to the Rupee"
On 11 November 2013, Stage One of the Economic History Museum, titled "Purana to the Rupee," was officially opened at the historic Central Point Building, Colombo Fort. The ceremony was graced by His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, along with the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and other senior officials.
This milestone event marked the launch of a national project dedicated to preserving and showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich economic heritage.
