Sudarsan Pattnaik, a world-renowned sand artist, has made history at the Sandworld 2025 International Sand Art Festival in Weymouth, England.
- Pattnaik won The Fred Darrington Sand Master Award for his contributions to the field of sand art.
- He is the first Indian artist to receive this prestigious award.
- Pattnaik’s achievement marks a milestone in his illustrious career, which includes participating in over 65 international sand sculpture championships and festivals around the world.
His 10-feet-high sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, a symbol of world peace, was a highlight of the festival. The sculpture, which featured a detailed representation of the Hindu deity, was an impressive display of Pattnaik’s artistry and skill.
“ I am honoured to be the first Indian artist to receive the ‘Fred Darrington’ British Sand Master Award at Sandworld 2025, a prestigious international sand art festival in Weymouth, UK,” said Pattnaik. “ This recognition is a testament to my 10-foot sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha, symbolising the universal message of World Peace.”
The prestigious award was presented to Pattnaik by the Mayor of Weymouth, Jon Orell, during the festival. The award ceremony attracted many international sand artists, who were drawn to Weymouth, dubbed the birthplace of British sand sculpture. The festival, which is a major tourist attraction, features exceptional sand sculptures by artists from around the world. This year’s special exhibition event ran from the weekend until November.
- Weymouth is a unique attraction, showcasing incredible works of art created using sand and water.
- The festival features an impressive array of sand sculptures, ranging from intricate designs to elaborate structures.
- Pattnaik’s achievement is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
| Location | Weymouth, England |
| Duration | From the weekend until November |
| Attendance | Many international sand artists and tourists |
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated Puri-based Pattnaik for the award. In a post on X, Majhi said: “Heartiest congratulations to Padma Shri awardee and eminent sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on being honoured with the first British Sand Master Award, ‘The Fred Darrington’. “His contribution has further enhanced the cultural heritage of our country and state on the global stage.”
Pattnaik’s achievement is a significant milestone in his career, which has been marked by numerous awards and accolades. He is a Padma Shri awardee and has participated in over 65 international sand sculpture championships and festivals around the world.
The Birthplace of British Sand Sculpture
Weymouth, where the festival took place, is famously known as the birthplace of British sand sculpture. The town’s unique location on the coast, combined with its mild climate, makes it an ideal place for creating intricate sand sculptures. The Sandworld 2025 festival showcased exceptional sand sculptures by artists from around the world. The festival featured an impressive array of sand sculptures, ranging from intricate designs to elaborate structures. The sand sculptures were created using nothing but sand and water, and the event was a testament to the creativity and skill of the artists involved.
The Significance of Sand Art
Sand art has a unique significance in the world of art. It is a form of art that is ephemeral, yet powerful.
- Sand art is a form of ephemeral art that is created using natural materials.
- It is often used to create intricate designs and patterns.
- Sand art has the power to inspire and educate people about different cultures and traditions.
Pattnaik’s sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha was an impressive display of his artistry and skill. The sculpture was a symbol of world peace, and it served as a reminder of the importance of unity and harmony. “ The recognition is a testament to my artistry and skill, and it is a reminder that art has the power to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.”
In conclusion, Pattnaik’s achievement is a significant milestone in his career, and it is a testament to the power of art to inspire and educate people about different cultures and traditions. The Sandworld 2025 festival was a celebration of the beauty and creativity of sand art, and it was a testament to the skill and artistry of the artists involved.
