Stories of far-away places, shapeshifting creatures and royals with riches are exciting enough on their own. Having hundreds of years of visual interpretations steeped with culture and history to guide your learning? That’s a whole other experience in itself.
Avatar: Forms of Vishnu has made a colourful splash at the Art Gallery of NSW, dropping in until October 5 and we think you’re going to get FOMO if you don’t catch it in time. Keep reading on to see why we think it’s a must-see.
You can book your tickets for Avatar: Forms of Vishnu at the Art Gallery of NSW here.
Avatar: Forms of Vishnu is the first major Australian exhibition dedicated to Vishnu, and the largest South and Southeast Asian art exhibition ever held at the Art Gallery of NSW. It’s your chance to explore almost 200 works on Aussie soil for the first time, with many of the treasures travelling from museums in India, Cambodia, Switzerland and the UK.
So who is Vishnu? He’s the deity of the Hindu religion, and it’s believed that he came down to Earth in many different life forms. It’s actually where the word ‘avatar’ comes from – it means descent in Sanskrit. In the exhibition, you’ll see Vishnu descended as Krishna, the playful cowherd and spiritual teacher; Prince Rama, hero of the Ramayana; and Narasimha, the fierce half-man, half-lion figure and more.
It’s never too early to start planning school holiday activities, or better yet, have exciting weekend plans for all ages. While mum or dad learn about Vishnu, kids can follow the children's trail, and play with the interactive digital screen to bring Vishnu's avatars to life. There are children's labels throughout the exhibition with explanations and thought starters so it’s easy for them to follow along. Better yet, little ones under 12 can attend for free, or you can get a family pass for two adults and up to three youth for $80.
It’s not often you work your way through an exhibition that spans 1,500 years’ worth of art. Rather than focusing on a single era, Avatar: Forms of Vishnu features centuries-old treasures while also having modern interpretations by artists like Desmond Lazaro and Sumakshi Singh, who have reimagined the myths for today.
Gallery-going doesn’t need to cost a pretty penny. On Wednesday nights, bring a friend and score 2-for-1 tickets. That’s $37 for the both of you. It’s a great opportunity to catch the gallery at a quieter time than the weekend, and spruce up your midweek a little more (after-work drinks at the gallery, anyone?). After all, we think Wednesdays are the new Fridays. Catch the deal from 5pm to 10pm.
Just upstairs, the Gallery’s MOD Dining has created an Avatar-inspired dining menu. Settle in a light-filled space with views overlooking Woolloomooloo and package your banquet dinner and meal all into one for $99. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and let the exhibition sink in. You can book your experience here.