The South Arkansas Arts Center (SAAC) will present “Pichwai Art,” a debut exhibition by artist Manasi Desai, on view in the Lobby Gallery from February 3 through March 1. An Artist Reception will be held on Thursday, February 12, from 5:30 to 7:00pm.

Desai’s exhibition centers on Pichwai art, a traditional Indian painting style that originated nearly 400 years ago in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Renowned for its intricate detail and vibrant color, Pichwai art most often depicts Lord Krishna and scenes from his life, particularly his playful interactions with cows and the Gopis (milkmaids). The term “Pichwai” is derived from the Sanskrit words pichh (back) and wai (hanging), referencing the large cloth paintings traditionally displayed as temple backdrops. Historically, Pichwai art has served as a devotional form of worship and remains an important visual tradition within the Pushtimarg sect of Vaishnavism, while also conveying stories from Indian mythology and literature.