Painter

Raqib Shaw

Raqib Shaw is an Indian painter known for densely detailed, jewel-like scenes made with industrial enamel, raised acrylic liner, and painstaking techniques that transform Old Master references into elaborate personal worlds.


Raqib Shaw quick facts

A concise reference for his materials, techniques, and painting approach.

Raqib Shaw quick facts
Born1974 · Kolkata, India
NationalityIndian
Paint mediaIndustrial enamel · Hammerite · Acrylic liner · Watercolor
Common supportsAluminum, prepared wood panels, and paper mounted on wood
Working methodBuilds raised outlines, then places and manipulates viscous enamel within tiny enclosed areas using fine tools such as syringes, pins, and porcupine quills
Known forOrnate paintings that combine Kashmir memories, Old Master compositions, fantasy, self-portraiture, animals, and highly controlled glossy surfaces

Sources: National Galleries of Scotland, National Galleries of Scotland: technique, and Pace Gallery.