Harminder Singh Boparai is a US-based award-winning sculptor who is best known for creating magic with his art by moulding all forms of mediums including clay and scrap metal.
On his recent trip to Australia, Mr Boparai exhibited his creations at the recently concluded Sikh Games.
He also took the opportunity to interact with the visitors and shared his thoughts about his work that explores many important themes including humanity, compassion and faith.
Navjot Kailey who is one of the national co-ordinators of the Sikh Games organising committee told SBS Punjabi that the event was a great success with a lot to invest in the form of arts and culture.
“Art plays an important role in our lives and involvement of world’s renowned artists at Sikh Games has become an integral part for the last few years,” he said.
“We feel privileged to have Mr Boparai on board this time. We thank him for his time and an amazing effort that generated a huge response and engagement at the Sikh Games.”
The iconic seven-foot metal sculptor was purchased by Labh Singh Kooner and will be displayed at the Sikh temple and Punjabi School in Bathurst, a regional city in NSW.
Harminder Singh Boparai exhibited his creations at the recently concluded Sikh Games. Source: Supplied
Mr Kailay told SBS Punjabi that the art piece was sold for $10,000 which covered the cost of making, while the surplus was donated to Sikh charity organisation Khalsa Aid International.
“We thank our very own and a well-known Australian artist Daniel Connell who has been instrumental in generating surplus funds for the charity,” he added.
“With the help of locals, we’ve generated $6,000 for Khalsa Aid international on the final day of Sikh Games.”
Amandeep Singh Sidhu, the former president of the Australian National Sikh Sports and Cultural Council (ANSSACC) said that it’s a rare opportunity for the visitors to witness Mr Boparai’s exclusive artwork.
A seven feet art piece was specifically designed and created to display at the Australian Sikh Games. Source: Supplied
“The seven-foot art piece was an amazing showcase that had shining alphabets used by the Sikh Gurus to recite divine knowledge,” said Mr Sidhu.
“It’s a tremendous job done by Mr Boparai and our special thanks to Gagan Hans who helped in laser cutting and engineering.”
In a social media post, Mr Boparai thanked the Australian Sikh community for their love and support.
The sculptor was purchased by Labh Singh Kooner (3rd from right) and will be displayed at the Sikh temple and Punjabi School in Bathurst, NSW. Source: Supplied
“I have reached my home in the USA but my heart and soul is still lost in love and support of all the wonderful people whom I have met in Australia. I am humbled with their hospitality, support and love which was beyond my expectations.
“It’s beyond my capacity to thank the Sikh Games organising committee for promoting and including Art as part of their annual event.
"I hope my relationship with Australian community will continue to build in coming years.”
The Australian Sikh Games is an annual sports carnival and meeting point for the Sikh community.
Harminder Singh Boparai with SBS Punjabi host Preetinder Singh Grewal at SBS Studios, Melbourne. Source: Supplied
The Sikh Games are held every year in capital cities and major regional areas around Australia.
This year’s event at Melbourne attracted over 200,000 people across three days between 19-21 April.
