Bhubaneswar, Sept. 13: Odia artist Sikan Panda, who recently returned from Bangladesh after taking part in the S.M. Sultan Art Camp, is full of rich experiences in the neighbouring country.
The international art camp held at Narail, Bangladesh, was hosted as a tribute to famous artist S.M. Sultan on his 91st birth anniversary.
The art camp included 15 artists from Bangladesh, Germany and six from India. Panda was the only artist representing Odisha.
The participants interacted with each other and shared ideas and latest trends. They also explored the scenic and historic sites of the country together. The common theme of the event was 'Faith and the Truth'. All the works of the artists were exhibited on the final day of the camp that concluded on August 29.
"It was wonderful to see the works and styles of artists from Bangladesh. Moreover, it was great to see how artists from that country are aware of current affairs and dare to speak against violence meted out to people in the pretence of religion," said Panda.
The 26-year-old created a mixed media artwork on the theme. Learning bits of Bengali during his stay at the camp, Panda created a triptych with each of the three segments made out of different elements. The first part was an etched mirror in which the word ' Aami' meaning oneself was highlighted. The second part was done on a canvas with grey shades in the backdrop on which tiny lines about faith and truth were painted in ink and the foreground had boldly painted Bengali words 'Maanush Dharma' meaning human duty. The final part of the work included a ply board on which Panda created a web with nylon threads and on this he painted the words ' Satya Biswas' meaning truth and faith.
His work was highly appreciated by the audience there and Panda has already been invited for a few art events to be held in Bangladesh next year.
"Not only was there a lot to learn at the camp but it was a matter of pride to take part in the event dedicated to a great artist. The camp is held every year since 2008. Such events help our art community strengthen the network beyond the borders," said Panda.
