Friday, March 20, 2026
Paintings, Translations, and Commentary by Melissa Townsend
Elm Fork Education Center (EESAT)
March 16 to April 3
Gallery talk and reception: March 20, 3 to 5 pm

Since 2011, the artist, scholar, and Yoga practitioner Melissa Townsend has been producing illustrated translations and commentaries on the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali. The 55 sūtras that comprise Book Two, Sādhana Pāda (On Practice) will be displayed in the gallery at the Elm Fork Education Center (EESAT) from March 16 to April 3. Join us for a reception and gallery talk with the artist on March 20, 3 to 5 pm, where we will explore the fascinating connections between Jainism and the philosophy and practice of Yoga.

About the Artist
Melissa Townsend is an independent scholar, artist, writer, and teacher of Sanskrit and Yoga philosophy. She has translated, painted, and authored The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali—A Visual Meditation and has presented and lectured on this work nationally and internationally.

Book cover

Books One, Two, and Three The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali: A Visual Meditation are available at: https://melissa-townsend.com/shop

Web: www.melissatownsend.art
Instagram: @melissatownsend.art