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 poster print collection features key works from the exhibition including the painting Lotus ponds (Kamal Vana) of the Yamuna from 19th century India.

Poster print
Made in Australia
70 x 100cm
Exclusive to the Gallery Shop

India, Rajasthan, Nathdwara
Lotus ponds (Kamal Vana) of the Yamuna 1800s
shrine hanging (pichhavai); opaque watercolour on cotton 176.5 x 204.3cm
National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, purchased 2009
Design: Art Gallery of New South Wales