Intro: Chandan Kumar Samal, a renowned sculptor of the state, has been conferred with the national Lalit Kala Akademi award for his sculpture titled ‘Human Thinking’ at the 60th National Exhibition of Art at National Gallery of Modern Art and JJ School of Art. He usually depicts the value of hard work and dedication in his works. In a freewheeling chat with Chaitali Shome of Orissa Post, Samal threw light on his forte and future plans. Excerpts:
Describe your emotions on receiving th e national Lalit Kala Akademi award.
I am just overwhelmed with happiness. I would like to dedicate this award to my Late father Taranikanta Samal. I also want to thank my Guru S P Choudhury and my elder brothers Panchanan and Purusottam Samal. I still feel my brother is a better artist than me as he has devoted his entire life to make my dream come true as a sculptor.
Which work of yours fetched you the award?
My work titled ‘Human Thinking’ bagged the national Lalit Kala Akademi award and along with me Jaya Jena of Odisha received the same award for painting. Through this sculpture, I want to teach human beings the quality of dedication and hard work which can help one to reach his destination. It took me 8 months to complete this sculpture.
What ingredients were used in this sculpture?
I have used Muguni stone and steel to create this sculpture which is two and a half feet tall and 16 inch wide. My sculpture is being showcased at JJ School of Art from February 25 to April 08, 2019.
What inspired you to create such an intricate model?
Earlier, I had visited Trinalaya exhibition in New Delhi in 2001, where I viewed sculptor Madan Lal Gupta’s nature-based works. These inspired me to create something similar.
Where did you learn the craft?
I have learnt sculpting from B K Art College in 1998. I have done BFA and MFA from Chhattisgarh’s Indira Kala Sangeet Viswavidayalaya. There was a time when I struggled a lot financially to sustain my passion. However, I never gave up.
Why are Odia artistes struggling to make an impact in national platforms?
Recognition is a process to applaud your inner strength and talent. Artistes in Odisha are jealous of their own counterparts. If artistes from Odisha will work hard and move beyond petty thoughts then they will reach the zenith of the art world.
What are your future plans?
I am teaching arts at Dhauli College of Art and Crafts. My dream is to help each and every Odia artistes to reach the pinnacle of glory. An artist must have patience and tolerance to become a legend.