Kewal Krishan Kamra, born on November 13, 1953, in Fazilka, Punjab, is a distinguished sculptor whose work spans several decades. His artistic journey began with a Five Year Diploma in Fine Arts (Sculpture) from the Government College of Art, Shimla (1976), followed by a two-year Post-Diploma in Creative Sculpture from MS University, Baroda (1978).
Kamra’s career is marked by numerous accolades and recognition. He received the President Scout Award from the President of India in 1970 and the Raja Ram Memorial Scholarship from the Government of Karnataka (1974-76). His work has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including the All India Portrait Exhibition and the All India 86th Annual Exhibition, both organized by the Bombay Art Society in 1978. Other notable exhibitions include the Shimla State Museum and the All India Exhibition by the Department of Language, Art & Culture Himachal Pradesh. In 2018-2019, he was awarded a Senior Fellowship in Visual Art (Sculpture) by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Kamra has held several solo exhibitions across India. These include shows at the Gaiety & Town Hall, Shimla (1975, 1977, 1989 and 1996), Balgandharva Kaladalan, Pune (1979), Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi (1991, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2003 and 2008), The Museum of Fine Arts, Punjab University, Chandigarh (1995 and 1999) and Lalit Kala Gallery, Ravindra Bhawan, New Delhi (2006 and 2015).
His works have been showcased in numerous national exhibitions, including those organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, and the Bombay Art Society. His sculptures are part of significant collections such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, Lalit Kala Akademi, and the State Museum, Shimla, among others. Notable pieces include a bronze bust of Vaidya Brihaspati Dev Triguna, displayed at Dhanvantri Bhawan, New Delhi, and various collections in India and abroad.
Kamra’s career in government service includes roles such as Artist Modeller in the Department of Preventive & Social Medicine Museum, AFMC, Pune, and Technical Assistant (Model) in DAVP, New Delhi. He served as Modeller Interpreter in the Directorate of Intelligence (IMINT), Air Headquarters, New Delhi, until his retirement in 2013.
In 2022, his biography titled Sculpting the Invisible in Visible written by Professor Prem Singh, was published, reflecting his profound impact on the world of sculpture. His artistic legacy continues to inspire and influence the field of sculpture in India and beyond.