Jamshedpur: Tata Steel Zoological Park in Bistupur will witness a riot of colours as the annual nature art camp kicks off from Friday.

Artists Forum of Jamshedpur and Tata zoo will jointly organise the eighth edition of the art camp-cum-exhibition, which will see a participation of 40 artists - 18 professional and 22 art school students.

ADM (law and order) Jamshedpur Subodh Kumar, who is also a self-taught artist, will inaugurate the art camp on Friday.

"The annual art camp tries to bring art and animal lovers together on one platform. I don't think such a camp inside a zoo is held anywhere in the country," said Suvendu Biswas, a sculptor and convenor of the camp.

The theme of the art camp is 'Beat Plastic Pollution', which is inspired by World Environment Day theme this year.

All the students and young artists were selected by a four-member jury through a WhatsApp contest, where students were asked to sent soft copies of their artwork.

The art camp will be held from 10am to 5pm on May 18, 19 and 20 while the paintings will be put on display from May 22 to May 25.The proceeds of the art camp will be distributed among artists or spent on social work.

While some artists, including few sculptors, will work inside the Nature Information Centre in the zoo, others can paint in the open.

"The camp will prove to be a learning platform for children as they will get to interact with senior artists," added Biswas.

With schools closed for summer holidays, Tata zoo officials expect a good turnout this time. "Besides gazing at animals, children and parents will get a chance to admire at the beautiful paintings, which will also help in inculcating love for wildlife among children," said Biswas.