Capturing Sinthuja’s Spirit: My Lloyds Bank “Bank on Her” Collaboration

In 2024, I had the wonderful opportunity to collaborate with Lloyds Bank as part of its “Bank on Her” campaign—a project celebrating women, their stories and their individual journeys.

For this collaboration, I was invited to create a portrait of Sinthuja. My aim was to capture more than her physical likeness; I wanted the painting to reflect her spirit, strength and vibrant personality.

Creating the Portrait

Before beginning the artwork, I considered how colour, texture and movement could communicate Sinthuja’s energy. Working in my distinctive mixed-media style, I built the portrait through expressive colour, layered marks and richly textured details.

Every colour was chosen with intention. The vibrant palette represents confidence, individuality and the many dimensions of a woman’s identity. Through bold contrasts and energetic brushwork, I wanted the portrait to feel alive—as though Sinthuja’s presence extended beyond the canvas.

Texture is an important part of my artistic practice. It allows me to explore the layers we carry within ourselves: our experiences, emotions, challenges and growth. In Sinthuja’s portrait, these layers became a visual expression of her story and inner strength.

Celebrating Women Through Art

The “Bank on Her” campaign strongly connected with the themes that run throughout my work. I often explore womanhood, identity, resilience and transformation, portraying women not simply as subjects but as powerful individuals with stories that deserve to be seen.

This collaboration allowed me to bring those ideas into a meaningful campaign and use art to celebrate a real woman’s journey. Creating Sinthuja’s portrait reminded me that portraiture can be much more than representation—it can honour a person’s presence, preserve a moment and make someone feel truly recognised.

A Meaningful Collaboration

Collaborating with Lloyds Bank on this project was an exciting moment in my career. It gave me the opportunity to combine my artistic language with a campaign centred around women and their stories.

I am incredibly proud of the finished portrait and grateful to have been trusted to interpret Sinthuja’s spirit through my art. The result is a bold and vibrant painting that celebrates her individuality while reflecting the wider message behind “Bank on Her.”

For me, this project was not simply about painting a portrait. It was about visibility, confidence and celebrating the power of being seen.

Artist: Chaya De Silva
Campaign: Lloyds Bank — “Bank on Her”
Year: 2024
Artwork: Mixed-media portrait of Sinthuja