Gopal Samantray was born in the village of Adhanga in Orissa, India in 1976, artist Gopal Samantray completed his B.F.A and M.F.A from the B.K College of Art, Odisha, in 2002 and 2004, respectively. The artist, who spent his formative years in the forests of Odisha, was drawn to nature and wildlife all through his life, and this reflects in his art. Through his brilliant depictions of displaced animals, Samantray suggests humankind’s sheer apathy and indifference towards nature and other living beings. Gopal Samantray’s striking artworks have been displayed at numerous group and solo shows across India. His works have also been showcased at the prestigious India Art Fair.

Passionate about colour and the natural environment, his paintings are an illustration of the ill-effects of industrial development on the environment. Eliciting a thought-provoking dialogue with the viewer, his artworks also attempt to address alarming issues like global warming and deforestation.