If the national imaginary isn’t your bag but new Asian art is, then head instead north to Chelsea. Bodhi Art is among the finest galleries of up-and-coming Indian artists. On view currently are the elegant minimalist works of Manisha Parekh, a young, promising mixed media virtuoso whose work is bereft of obvious Indian indices.

Wonderwoods demonstrates Parekh’s exquisite obsession with the organic. Undulating ovals are composed in two- and three-dimensions with an obsessive dedication that is intensely calming rather than frenetic. Although the works are anything but ostentatious, there is an overwhelming tactile depth and richness to the paint, cloth, and string used in each compositions’ construction. It was difficult not to touch.

- Sophia Powers

(*Images, from top to bottom: Manisha Parekh, Wonderwoods, February 15- March 15, 2008; Bodhi Art, Uncertain Eggs (triptych), Handmade paper on board with silk and embroidery thread, 2007, 36 x 24 inches each, Courtesy of the artist and Bodhi Art, New York.  Manisha Parekh, Wonderwoods, February 15- March 15, 2008; Bodhi Art, Beads on Silk (set of 100 units), Chinese ink and gouache on rice paper, 2007, 6 x 8 3/4 inches each, Courtesy of the artist and Bodhi Art, New York.  Manisha Parekh, Wonderwoods, February 15- March 15, 2008; Bodhi Art, Waiting to Blossom 2, Handmade paper on board and cord, 2007, 48 x 48 inches, Courtesy of the artist and Bodhi Art, New York.  Manisha Parekh, Wonderwoods, February 15- March 15, 2008; Bodhi Art, Bonding - Extended, Handmade paper on board, 2007, 36 x 60 inches, Courtesy of the artist and Bodhi Art, New York.)