Raqib Shaw’s monumental painting “Paradise Lost” is a deeply personal and allegorical work that reflects the artist’s experiences of loss and beauty. Born out of his exile from Kashmir and his subsequent reinvention in London, the painting is a sprawling narrative that spans four chapters of Shaw’s life, from childhood to 2015.
Comprised of 21 panels that stretch 100 feet wide, “Paradise Lost” is a visual epic that delves into themes of displacement, grief, and the transformative power of art. Shaw’s use of metaphor is central to the painting’s narrative, drawing on the intrinsic nature of metaphor in Kashmiri culture to convey meaning with depth and precision.
The painting begins with a seated figure howling at the moon in the Karakoram mountain ranges of Shaw’s youth, symbolizing innocence and solitude. As the narrative unfolds, we see a bird being freed from its cage, a figure surrounded by snakes, and a small hut devoid of luxuries. These scenes reflect the loss of various paradises we experience in life, from childhood innocence to the calm of mental stillness.
To create these dazzling scenes, Shaw employs unconventional materials such as syringes, porcupine quills, and enamel paints used in the auto industry. The intricate details are achieved through acrylic liner on gesso, inlaid stones, and other small materials, creating a shimmering and luminous effect.
Despite the heavy themes of displacement and grief, Shaw emphasizes that beauty is at the core of “Paradise Lost.” He believes that art has the power to transform sorrow into meaning, alchemizing personal pain into something enduring and transcendent.
“Paradise Lost” is currently on view at the Art Institute of Chicago until January 19, 2026. Shaw’s work invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of loss and beauty, resonating on a universal level. To explore more of Shaw’s art, visit his website and Instagram page for a deeper dive into his intricate and evocative creations.
