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 print Vishnu-Garud Wahan featuring the king of birds, Garuda.

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

Raja Ravi Varma (India 1848–1906) Ravi Varma Press, Karla-Lonavla, India 
Vishnu-Garud Wahan c1894–1930
oleograph with zardosi embroidery, 71.12 x 50.8cm 
Queensland Art Gallery I Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane, purchased 2024 with funds from the Henry and Amanda Bartlett Trust through the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation
Design: Art Gallery of New South Wales