Renowned Odia artist showcases three decades of brilliant creations
Bhubaneswar is currently hosting a monumental cultural event at the Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre. Celebrating a highly anticipated homecoming, internationally famous creator Jagannath Panda is displaying his recent masterpieces in a solo show called "The Long Now of Us."
Organized by Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) Odisha, this incredible display gives locals a rare chance to see the evolution of an Odia artist over thirty years. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo proudly inaugurated the Jagannath Panda exhibition. During his address, he praised the initiative for beautifully connecting traditional Odia roots with modern global conversations.
Prof. (Dr.) Pradosh Mishra guided special guests through the gallery on opening night. Curator Sibdas Sengupta explained how the creator shifted from simple storytelling art to deep, meaningful abstraction. One standout piece capturing everyone's attention is a massive 16-foot archival chariot that anchors the entire room.
Collage remains the central method for these contemporary art Odisha displays. By blending sculptures, digital elements, and mixed-media paintings, the creator tackles serious topics like nature's fragility and memory politics. You will notice fragments of temple designs, local dance gestures, and city textures woven seamlessly into his complex visual fields.
EO Odisha is driving this important cultural milestone. Representing top local business leaders, this group wants to boost intellectual and creative growth across the state. Board Member Kamal Agarwal highlighted that bringing this EO Odisha cultural event to the city proves our state is a thriving hub for fresh knowledge, not just ancient heritage.
For the creator himself, this Odia artist homecoming is deeply personal. He explained that many shapes in his current work come from landscapes he experienced growing up here. Bringing these memories back to his hometown feels like completing a long, beautiful cycle where the past and present gracefully collide.
Another exciting moment from the launch was the release of a new scholarly book about the creator's philosophical journey, written by Ramakanta Samantaray. Fans can even attend a special book discussion with the author and visiting scholars on February 27.
Art lovers have until February 28, 2026, to experience this magic in person. Doors at the Lalit Kala Akademi Bhubaneswar remain open daily from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Do not miss this chance to witness world-class creativity right here in the city.
