Curatorial Note
Raqib Shaw: The Story Behind the Exhibition
Staged inside the distinguished galleries of The Art Institute of Chicago, 'Raqib Shaw: Paradise Lost' brings into sharp focus the compelling artistic vision of Raqib Shaw. As one of the highlight presentations of the cultural calendar, this exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable encounter with key masterworks and pivotal creative breakthroughs. At the Art Institute, Shaw debuts his more-than 100-feet-wide, 21-panel Paradise Lost (2009–25), the artist’s most ambitious and personal project to date. This magnificent allegorical painting takes viewers on a spellbinding journey, from the nocturnal solitude of the artist’s childhood in Kashmir to the frenzied daylight of the art world and the West to finally a fragile, renewed dawn.
The curatorial narrative examines the aesthetic evolution of Raqib Shaw, highlighting the nuanced handling of light, palette, and spatial rhythm. By assembling rare loans alongside signature works, the presentation reveals how the artist continually reshaped European visual culture.
Surrounded by the monumental architecture of The Art Institute of Chicago, the installation establishes a luminous, contemplative atmosphere. Each gallery room has been thoughtfully paced to provide art enthusiasts and curious travelers with an inspiring and immersive museum experience.
Curatorial Perspective
At the Art Institute, Shaw debuts his more-than 100-feet-wide, 21-panel Paradise Lost (2009–25), the artist’s most ambitious and personal project to date. This magnificent allegorical painting takes viewers on a spellbinding journey, from the nocturnal solitude of the artist’s childhood in Kashmir to the frenzied daylight of the art world and the West to finally a fragile, renewed dawn.
Curatorial Premise
A comprehensive exploration of the visual revolution and aesthetic mastery of Raqib Shaw.
“This exhibition invites audiences to look beyond traditional boundaries and discover the rich emotional depth of Raqib Shaw's creations.”
TA
The Art Institute of Chicago Curatorial Department
Chief Curatorial Team
Curated Room-by-Room Walkthrough
Thematic Journey & Exhibition Rooms
01 Origins
Formative Years & Early Vision
Early exploratory works and seminal influences that laid the groundwork for future mastery.
02 Core Masterpieces
The Height of Mastery
The definitive mid-career triumphs where technical virtuosity and emotional power reached their zenith.
03 Monumental Vista
Enduring Legacy & Dialogue
The lasting resonance of this artistic journey set in dialogue with the permanent collections of The Art Institute of Chicago.
Key Highlights
Featured Exhibition Masterpieces
2026 Featured Masterpiece: Raqib Shaw: Paradise Lost
Curated Exhibition Highlight
The centerpiece of the exhibition, epitomizing the formal command and expressive brilliance of Raqib Shaw.
Artistic Study Preparatory Studies & Cartoons
Archival & Curatorial Selection
Intimate preparatory drawings revealing the artist's structural methodology and draftsmanship.
Permanent Setting Exhibition Gallery Installation
Gallery & Spatial Perspective
The luminous curatorial staging inside the historic gallery chambers of The Art Institute of Chicago.
OFFICIAL TICKETS & ADMISSION
Select Your Tickets & Timeslot
WHAT YOU WILL SEE
Key Masterpieces & Exhibition Highlights
- ✓Skip-the-line admission to the Art Institute of Chicago
- ✓Semi-private guided tour (2 to 2.5 hours)
- ✓Professional licensed tour guide
Practical Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting The Art Institute of Chicago
Opening Hours
Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
Last entry 45 min before closing Public Transit
Metro / Bus station nearby
Recommended Duration
approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
Average visit duration The Museum
Explore Museum Guide & Permanent Collection → The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the US, attracting approximately 1.5 million guests annually. It is home to some of the world's most famous paintings, including The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges-Pierre Seurat, Edward Hopper's Nighthawks, and Grant Wood's American Gothic, among countless other works.
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