Ray Exworth's hidden sculptures are among the most astonishing and elusive art collections in Britain, locked away in Cornish sheds and seen by fewer than 20 people. For over six decades, Exworth built intricate, sprawling works from salvaged materials, yet almost no one witnessed them. A new book by photographer Jem Southam, Ray’s Sheds, provides unprecedented access to this hidden world.
The Artist Behind the Sheds
Born in 1930 in Ipswich, Exworth was the eldest of five sons. His father, a skilled sandcaster, inspired his love for making things. After traumatic wartime bombings destroyed their homes twice, Exworth’s art became fixated on childhood memories—clowns, dolls, and a replica of his father’s rebuilt garden. He poured his obsessions into seven studio sheds and shipping containers on a remote Cornish smallholding.
Get the #1 Wireless Door Camera
REOLINK Bestseller: 2K Weatherproof Video Doorbell, No Monthly Fees.
Only One Public Exhibition
Exworth’s sole major exhibition was at the Whitechapel Gallery in 1975. Since then, his work vanished from the art world. His wife Susie, now 92, recalls: “I could not visit without an invitation!” The artist died in 2015 at age 84, leaving his creations untouched.
| Aspect | Exworth’s Works | Traditional Gallery Art |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Hidden in private sheds | Publicly displayed |
| Materials | Salvaged objects, scrap metal | Often new, curated materials |
| Purpose | Personal obsession, memory | Market, audience engagement |
| Audience | Under 20 visitors in 60 years | Thousands of gallery-goers |
Key Takeaways from 'Ray’s Sheds'
- Exceptionally rare access: Only 20 people have ever seen the sculptures inside Ray’s sheds.
- Unprecedented documentation: Jem Southam’s book is the first comprehensive visual record.
- Artistic legacy questioned: What does it mean to create art that no one sees?
- Childhood trauma influence: Bombings and family life shaped Exworth’s recurring motifs.
Why This Matters
Exworth’s story challenges the definition of art. His work is not commodified, not exhibited—yet it exists with extraordinary craftsmanship. Southam’s book not only preserves the sculptures but invites reflection on the purpose of creative expression.
FAQ
Who was Ray Exworth?
Ray Exworth (1930–2015) was a British sculptor who spent 60 years creating a vast, hidden collection of works in Cornish sheds. He had only one major exhibition in his lifetime.
Why are Exworth’s sculptures hidden?
Exworth deliberately kept his work private, allowing almost no visitors—even his wife needed an invitation. The sheds remained locked after his death until photographer Jem Southam gained access.
How can I see Ray Exworth’s sculptures?
The sculptures are not open to the public, but Jem Southam’s book Ray’s Sheds offers the first photographic tour of the entire collection.
Home Decor Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
