Robert Rapson: Against the Tide

Against the Tide celebrates the life and work of late ceramicist Robert Rapson (1951-2020).

Best known for his delightfully idiosyncratic sculptures and encyclopedic knowledge of boats, Rapson’s work demonstrates his joyful and quirky approach to ceramics. Mostly self-taught, Rapson came to ceramics later in life after a career in civil service—embracing art making as a way to help weather the storm clouds that passed through his life.

This exhibition reflects both Rapson’s passion for ships and his position outside the artistic status quo, and also introduces audiences to his wider practice beyond his well-known boats.

Against the Tide is part of The Dowse Art Museum’s 50th Anniversary programme. It continues our long-standing commitment to ceramic arts, including recent exhibitions such as Dirty Ceramics (2019) or Slip Cast (2014). It also reflects The Dowse’s support of artists operating outside the mainstream, such as Bob Gerrard’s arks or the iconic textile art of Malcolm Harrison.