Avatar: Forms of Vishnu brings together centuries of art and storytelling from South and Southeast Asia celebrating Vishnu, the Hindu deity who preserves order in the universe.

Avatar, meaning ‘descent’ in Sanskrit, describes the many forms Vishnu takes to descend from the heavens to restore balance on earth. In sculpture, painting, textiles and photographs, the exhibition traces the ways artists have envisioned Vishnu’s various avatars, including Matsya the fish, Kurma the tortoise, the beloved Krishna, the noble prince Rāma, and Kalki, the future avatar who will bring renewal.

Our latest postcard designs celebrate key works in the exhibition, including the watercolour painting Krishna playing the flute among the gopis while the demon Madhu sits on the riverbank.

Avatar: Forms of Vishnu postcard
Sold individually
Art paper
10.5 x 15cm
Exclusive to the Gallery Shop

India, Madhya Pradesh
Krishna playing the flute among the gopis while the demon Madhu sits on the riverbank c1690 opaque watercolour on paper, 26 x 20.5cm
Art Gallery of New South Wales, gift of Dr Jim Masselos 2021
Design: Art Gallery of New South Wales