A 15-day-long sculpture camp, jointly organised by the Rashtriya lalit Kala Akademi and the Sudarshan Art and Crafts Village, got underway here on Tuesday.

As many as 15 craftsmen from across the State would exhibit their art pieces at the camp. Inaugurating the event, Culture Minister Ashok Chandra Panda said, “This camp will provide an opportunity for the State Government, which has several plans to improve the conditions of artisans and preserve the art and culture of the State. We would organise more camps soon.”

The aim of the camp is to promote the State’s wood and stone sculpture, said eminent sculptor Guru Sudarshan Sahoo. The participating sculptors have been provided with raw materials like different types of stones and woods to work on, he added.

Artisan Nalinikanta Ojha, a participant, said, “As I was born near Konark, I have always been inspired to be an artisan by observing the art and architecture of the monument (Sun Temple).” Ojha belongs to a traditional Maharana family of hereditary artisans, working both in stone and wood. He has a mastery over Japanese style iconography of Buddhist god and goddess.

Master craftsman Kunja Maharana (54) of lalitgiri said, “I am a hereditary artist and artistic tradition is in my blood.” He has acquired skill and mastery in carving out statues and loves to do carving on Odisha Red Sand Stone.

Revenue Secretary Mona Sharma, former diplomat Abasara Beuria and Ajay Panigrahi were present at the inaugural function.