Seaside Surrealism

10 Oct 2025-31 Jan 2026

PV 9 Oct 2025, 6-8pm

Overview

Show inspired by Paul Nash's experience of Swanage, featuring works by Annie Attridge, Jake Clark, Matthew Dowell, Rae Hicks, Adam King, Sharon Kivland, D J Roberts, Cyrus Shroff and Paul Westcombe. 

Bobinska Brownlee New River is delighted to present Seaside Surrealism, an exhibition inspired by the writings, photographs and paintings of Paul Nash, during his extended visits to Swanage in 1934-1936.

The artist found the Dorset seaside town 'surreal', in the main due to the fact that numerous buildings and artefacts from Victorian London found their way to the town. This was because supplies of Purbeck stone were transported by boat to the capital for building projects. When large sailing vessels returned to Swanage, they were considered unstable if unladen. They were therefore filled with ballast consisting of unwanted bits of masonry and street furniture from London.

The artists in Seaside Surrealism have been invited to respond to this unusual and little-known piece of history. The exhibition spans ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture.

In addition to our opening, the show will feature an additional live music event by Eliza and Stan Talman (January 2026).