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The Hindu philosophical identity of this special primary school had to be clearly expressed in the work of art for the Shri Vishnu School. A commission of this nature is tailor-made for artist Hans van Bentem. For what fascinates him is the cross-pollination between popular culture and ancient myths and stories from all kinds of cultures all over the world.

In 2006, Van Bentem designed no fewer than ten sculptures in various forms and materials, in which the god Vishnu plays a central role. They are the ten different forms, or avatars, in which Vishnu descends upon the earth to restore the balance between good and evil. Vishnu is one of the most important Hindu gods, the one who maintains creation. He has visited the earth nine times to solve problems. The tenth avatar of Vishnu, Kalkin with his flaming sword, is still expected.

Van Bentem has rendered the ten avatars in a visual language that fits in well with today's youth culture: hip, contemporary, playful, crazy and funny. For example, in addition to the granite turtle Kurma in the schoolyard, there is the shiny aluminium fish Matsya, with golden scales and pink fins and lips. He is raising a golden ark to save mankind from the Flood.

Inside, incorporated into the interior by the famous architect Ashok Bhalotra, are eight more sculptures, including the man-lion Narasimha in neon and the bronze dwarf Vamana, who can transform himself into a giant. The giant is a huge blue inflatable doll made of vinyl, most reminiscent of a Michelin man. It must be wonderful for the children when the giant emerges from his little box. Moreover, the symbolism of the statues is so familiar to them. It is quite normal for the toddlers to stroke the alluring pearly Krishna.