Gopal Samantray is a well-known contemporary Indian artist who uses his work to speak up for nature. Born in 1976 in the village of Adhanga, Odisha, he grew up surrounded by the region's beautiful forests. This early experience gave him a lifelong love for wildlife and the environment. To pursue his passion, he studied at the B.K. College of Art in Odisha, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2002 and his Master’s degree in Fine Arts in 2004.

Samantray’s bright, colorful paintings focus heavily on the damage caused by industrial growth, global warming, and cutting down forests. He often paints pictures of animals that have lost their homes, which shows how deeply human carelessness affects other living creatures. Inspired by legendary masters like Picasso and Dali, his unique style creates a powerful message that makes viewers think about their relationship with the planet.