Odisha Tribal Artists goes international, displayed their art in Dubai

First Odisha Tribal Artists Exhibition Showcases Rich Cultural and Heritage of state

Dubai: In a bid to highlight the artistic prowess of tribal communities, the Odisha Lalit Kala Academy organized a significant exhibition of tribal paintings in Dubai from March 12th to 14th, 2024.

This initiative aimed to uplift tribal artists and was inaugurated by Satish Kumar Shivan, the Consul General of India in Dubai, with Sudarsan Pattnaik, a renowned sand artist and the president of the Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi, presiding over the function.

Fifteen talented tribal artists from various districts of Odisha, including Rayagada, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, Kalahandi, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh, participated in the exhibition. Their intricately crafted artworks, rich in cultural significance, showcased the diverse tribal cultures of Odisha, particularly focusing on the Sauras, Santhals, Kolhas, and Kandhas.

Talking to The Brew News, Satish Kumar Shivan said that, “India has immerse potential in its tribal areas and this exhibition is a reflection of tibals rich art and craft culture. I am sure this exposure to the arts will give them an international prospective to grow and enrich their skills”

The exhibition provided a platform for these artists to exhibit their unique perspectives and creative expressions, garnering appreciation from both local and international visitors. Several artists were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to the art world as the event concluded.

World renouned sand artist and the president of the Odisha Lalit Kala Academy Sudarsan Pattnaik added that, “It was a challenge for us to bring all of them here, as many of them didnt have the passport and never cameout from their local vacinity. But we arranged everything within our time line. The best part of exhibition is that all the showcased artwork is done by artists after reaching here. We can say, it is the live art exhibition.”

Under the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Government of Odisha, this initiative was inspired by the Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The exhibition took place at the Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga, where fifteen exceptionally gifted tribal artists showcased their mesmerizing artworks before an international audience.

The inauguration was graced by Satish Kumar Shivan, whose commendation echoed appreciation towards the Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi for fostering cultural exchange and dialogue. Leading the event was Padamashree Sudarsan Pattnaik, whose commitment to promoting artistic endeavors was evident.

The exhibited artworks served as poignant reflections of Odishan Tribal Culture, capturing the essence of traditions observed by communities such as the Sauras, Santhals, Kolhas, and Kandhas. Originating from diverse districts, the artists depicted their cultural heritage on canvas, breathing life into their creations.

Each artist was duly honored during the event, highlighting their remarkable contributions to creativity and cultural heritage. The esteemed presence of Madhusudan Das and Panchanan Samal added gravitas to the occasion, welcoming esteemed guests and ensuring seamless coordination.

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The exhibition drew an eclectic audience, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of Odishan Tribal Artistry among artists, aficionados, and students from diverse art schools across Dubai.