Narasimha and prahalad
Mahaveer Swami
Mahaveer Swami, born in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India, in 1959, is a highly accomplished artist. He began his artistic journey with home training before pursuing a Diploma in Painting & Sculpture at the Rajasthan School of Art in Jaipur. Mahaveer Swami's artistic themes frequently encompass asceticism, the everyday experiences of Indian women, and Hindu mythology, all influenced by Mughal and Rajasthani miniature traditions. With a strong interest in botany, he has produced remarkable miniature paintings with botanical themes. He has also collaborated with several prominent botanical societies, including the American, Korean, and Indian Botanical Societies. His art has gained international recognition through exhibitions at prestigious galleries in various Indian cities and abroad. He honed his skills in traditional painting under the tutelage of his mentor, the late Shri Vedpal Sharma "Bannu." Swami's work has been extensively exhibited, with over 60 galleries in India, including major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, showcasing his art. Internationally, his reach extends to Paris, Brussels, Jerusalem, Washington DC, New York, Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Spain and Australia. Beyond exhibitions, Mahaveer Swami is dedicated to sharing his expertise. He has conducted workshops and training programs across India and globally, in locations such as Paris, Cairo, Jerusalem, Dubai, Bhutan, Algeria, Taiwan, Belgium, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Pittsburgh and Washington, DC. His artistic prowess has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Master Craftsman Award (National Award). His art is held in the collections of over 17 museums and galleries worldwide, including institutions in Jerusalem, Berlin, Pittsburgh, New York, Paris, Belgium and Algeria. Mahaveer Swami's contributions to the art world are also documented in various books, magazines, and online blogs. His artwork is part of the permanent collections at esteemed institutions such as the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, the Museum Of Sacred Art in Durbuy, Belgium, the Cultural International Festival of Miniature & Illumination in Tlemcen, Algeria and the One Asia Project in Auroville, Pondicherry. His career exemplifies dedication and mastery, creating art that resonates across borders and cultures.
Description
Blessing in Still Waters shows a divine moment frozen with quiet intensity. Mahaveer Swami paints a towering, lion-faced deity seated on a blooming lotus, surrounded by thick rolling clouds that look almost sculpted. The figure rises with a calm but commanding presence, holding sacred symbols with effortless steadiness. Below, a young devotee stands on a lotus leaf, hands raised, completely absorbed in reverence.
The palette stays soft and misty… muted greys, pale pinks, and earthy golds. Every detail, from the fall of the garlands to the fine ink textures in the clouds, feels deliberate. The whole scene has a sense of stillness that draws you in… like stepping into a myth told in whispers.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- A powerful blend of devotion and mythology
- Soft, cloud-filled backdrop that adds dreamlike calm
- Elegant composition balancing scale, emotion and detail
- A standout piece for anyone drawn to spiritual miniature
What is the theme of Blessing in Still Waters?
Which materials are used in Blessing in Still Waters?
Why is Blessing in Still Waters a notable work?
Where does Blessing in Still Waters fit best in a collection?
Mahaveer Swami
Bikaner Miniature Artist || Botanical Storyteller || Guardian of Sacred Themes
Unique Practice
He uses "pardaash" (black ink for 3D) and Sone ki syahi (golden effect), characteristic of Bikaner-style painting.