Puri, Jan 1 Noted sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik's creation of United States President-elect Barack Obama as the 'Face of the Year' has become a huge crowd puller at the famed Puri beach in Orissa.

Patnaik along with his trainees and some school children used ten tons of sand to create the sand sculptor of buildings with face of Obama in the centre. It took five hours to create this eye-catching sculpture.

Talking to media persons, Patnaik said that Obama is a world famous figure. So tourists and residents who visit the beach can have a look of the person who would be taking office as the President next month in art form.

"As the year is ending, we have made the most popular face of the year on sand. US People from every country are waiting to see him as the new President," said Patnaik.

Residents at the beach felt that Obama has created history not just for America but also for the entire world.

"It is natural that everybody wants change. He is the historical figure in the world itself, as no black person has ever become the US President. He is the first negro who will take the seat of President," said Mohan Sharma, a resident.

As per media reports Patnaik has written a letter to Obama seeking his support to create a sand art park for the promotion of sand art in United States.

Patnaik has participated in about 38 international sand sculpture competitions and festivals across the world, winning accolades for his artistry. By Sharada Lahangir (ANI)