The Umbrella has been around for almost 4000 years – used as protection from the elements, it is a symbol of shelter and unity. It has been a popular motif in Buddhist art, and has been a status symbol in many countries. In Sri Lanka, a white umbrella was a symbol of sovereignty which only royalty could possess, at the death of a king any white umbrellas in his possession were broken. In Japan, purple umbrellas are a symbol of longevity. As well as all of this symbolism, Artist Jon Gubbay's umbrella paintings bring colour, uplift and joy.

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