Bahrain is famous for its fabulous forts and could add another tourism attraction in the shape of castles, classic sculptures and even stages of intricate art work ... made of sand.
Award-winning sand artist Dr Sudarsan Pattnaik believes the kingdom should capitalise on its coastline covering to boost eco-tourism by investing in a museum of creations the wind would normally blow away.
“In Europe, schools use sand to help children develop architectural skills – we have land in Bahrain where students can practise making sculptures,” said the Guinness World Record (2017) holder for building the tallest sand castle at 48 feet.
“Bahrain can also use it to promote tourism because sand art is big business with international festivals staged in many countries that governments use to attract tourists, which in turn boosts their economies.
“Furthermore, I believe that public art forms such as sand art can help a younger generation so preoccupied on their smartphones, in seeing and understanding culture and heritage.”
The sand artist from Puri, Odisha, spoke to the GDN during his visit to Bahrain at the invitation of the Bahrain Odiya Samaj, an elected association of people from the Indian State of Odisha residing in the kingdom.
The 44-year-old Padma Shri (India’s fourth-highest civilian award) recipient has represented India at more than 50 international competitions and received numerous awards.
During the Utkal Divas (Odisha Day) celebrations at the Cultural Hall, the artist described how sand could ‘connect nations and strengthen ties’ during a live sand painting session.
“Sand is something that connects nations,” he said, “and it can be used to highlight causes such as pollution, healthy living, and, on occasions, help celebrate important relationships such as the Indo-Bahrain ties.
“As an artist, I try my best to promote good causes and to educate – in India we are trying to add this art form as part already of our educational curriculum, as a subject – we are trying to make it a certificate course tutored digitally.
“I have already discussed with some universities who are ready to accept this proposal. And, we are trying to make a Sand Art Museum in Puri on a piece of land which was given to us by the Odisha government.”
Bahrain could do likewise, added Dr Pattnaik, who is the president of Odisha Lalit Kala (Fine Arts) Academy, while offering his support to the kingdom.
Unlike more permanent sand sculptures (wind permitting), his sand art work can change its appearance with every stroke of his hand, making it an ‘emotionally luring experience’ for both artist and the viewer.
“I have witnessed this emotion, particularly during international championships, because viewers do not want to miss each moment, or scene change, as we curate our art.”
Nature and climate change action took centre stage at the celebrations held under the patronage of the Indian Embassy, which also featured Indian Oddissi dance artist Guru Gajendra Kumar Panda and his disciples at the Tridhara (the three streams), the institution founded by him in Bhubaneswar.
They performed dance segments highlighting environment pollution and calling for quick action to save the planet, alongside connecting tales from Hindu mythology.
“Let’s work together to heal the ailing planet, which is our mother,” said the 69-year-old who performed a solo segment at the event.
Indian Ambassador Piyush Srivastava opened an exhibition of 75 hand-crafted items to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Indian independence on the side-lines of the event, attended by government officials, top diplomats, businessmen and community leaders.
“The items were directly sourced from the indigenous tribes of Odisha,” said Bahrain Odia Samaj founder Dr Arun Kumar Praharaj, who hopes to support further their villages with community backing.
Utility items such as mats and bowls made from the thin and long fibrous leaves of Sabai Grass, brightly coloured ‘Chandua’ applique and patchwork from Pipili village, showpieces of ancient Indian Dhokra art, and silver filigree works from ancient Tarakasi work were on display.
The evening also featured, tribal dances and a fashion show.
raji@gdn.com.bh
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