Thoidingjam Tombi Singh at the function on Wednesday. Picture by Eastern Projections

Feb. 21: When it comes to rolling out the “red carpet” to men of art, culture and literature, this cultural hub of the Northeast has never been found wanting. It was no different today when the art fraternity and connoisseurs of the city accorded a warm welcome to painter- sculptor Thoidingjam Tombi Singh of Manipur at the Guwahati Press Club.

Singh was in the city en route to Nagaon, where he will be conferred the fifth Pranab Barua Art Award, given in memory of a legendary painter-sculptor who hailed from the central Assam town.

Veteran painter Noni Borpujari, who is also one of Singh’s closest friends, said it was an honour for art lovers of the city to host the talented artist of the region.

“It is always nice to be in the city, where people have always showered me with immense love and warmth. The people here have always been enthusiastic about growth and development in the art world and it is quite satisfying for any artist. I also share a strong connection with the city, as I did my graduation from Gauhati University,” Singh said.

“It is humbling to receive the award. Like in the past, I will always make efforts to bring artists from across the region onto one podium. And Guwahati acts as a big platform for the art community of the region.”

Since its institution five years ago, Singh is the first non-Assamese artist to win the prestigious award. According to the award committee, Singh has been selected for the honour, as his art works immensely represent the essence of the Northeast and its folk culture.

Instituted in 2002, the previous recipients of the award were Sobha Brahma, Benu Mishra, Neelpawan Barua and Adya Sharma.

During an interactive session, the 71-year-old Singh recalled the days he spent in the city as a student. “Various aspects of the city had a great influence on me. Till date, all those influences hold sway over my art work,” he said.

Singh has won many honours, including the National Akademi Award by Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, senior fellowship in painting given by Union ministry of tourism and culture and gold medals from Manipur Sahitya Parishad.

Singh has exhibited his works across the globe, including at Kleinsassen Fulda, Germany, and visited Singapore on invitation for the group show of nine contemporary artists in 1991, besides almost all cities of India. Many of his works also adorn the walls of several corporate and private collectors in India and abroad.

He also writes on various aspects of art as an art critic.