When the kingdom was absorbed into the British Empire as a protectorate, following the Kandyan Convention of 1815, without a royal household most of these artists and craftsmen lost their livelihood and the guilds were disbanded, with only a few families continuing their crafts.

[8][9] In 1982 the association undertook a significant expansion, in conjunction with the organisation's centenary, constructing a new cultural centre and theatre adjoining the existing heritage building.

[14] In 2005 the government, through the efforts of Lakshman Kadirgamar (National List MP and Minister of Foreign Affairs),[15] provided 7 million LKR to restore and enhance the building complex.

[14] The Association organises a daily one hour traditional Kandyan dance and music performance showcase in the building's auditorium.

The sales centre displays and sells handicrafts obtained from traditional crafts people who are members of the association.