Paradise takes form in the mind: an expression of longing, a vision that sustains, light in the darkness. Oxford-based artist, Saad Qureshi, invites people to describe what paradise represents or looks like to them, and translates their hopes and dreams into sculptural mindscapes.

On Paradise features recent and newly-commissioned works by Qureshi, including pieces inspired by the paradisial imaginings of communities and Humanities scholars in Oxford. Curated by anthropologist Paul Basu, Qureshi’s remarkable works are animated sonically through a collaboration with the sound artist Tim Cowie. In addition to the main exhibition in the Schwarzman Centre’s White Box, Qureshi has made a series of smaller works installed in each of the University’s museums, including 'Abaabil',  shown below, here at the Museum of Natural History.

'Abaabil' by Saad Qureshi on display at the Museum

Detail of 'Abaabil'

Abaabil draws together the real and the imagined. This fantastical, bird-like creature evokes flight and freedom while suggesting another kind of journey: the flight of the imagination. Its title alludes to the Qur'anic account of birds sent in flocks to defend the Kaaba in Mecca from an invading army.

The work is one of five sculptural interventions by Oxford-based artist Saad Qureshi installed across the University's museums. Together, these works extend On Paradise, an exhibition featuring Qureshi's works at the Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities, into the University's collections.