Open February 23 through June 8, 2014, Collection Focus: Sergei Isupov is a mid-career retrospective for an innovative artist who has pushed the theoretical and narrative possibilities of clay. Featuring over 20 works in both two and three dimensions, this exhibition offers a rich visual catalogue of what Isupov has produced to date. In addition, the show reflects the passion and generosity of individual donors who have supported the artist and helped to build RAM's groundbreaking collection of provocative works in clay.  

Sergei Isupov, To Fish, 2011 Glazed porcelain Racine Art Museum, Gift of David and Jacqueline Charak Photography: John Polak

Interested in exploring the dynamics of human relationships, Sergei Isupov (born Stravapol, Russia, 1963) has found a distinctive artistic voice combining two-dimensional narrative with three-dimensional ceramic form. Imbuing his work with social, cultural, and personal history, Isupov investigates the dynamics of the human condition through complex and compelling compositions. Figures in all states of dress or undress-often in isolated or abstracted landscapes-morph and shift as animals become part human or vice-versa.

Works on paper-whether charcoal, gouache, or prints-extend Isupov's investigations and allow him to further play with composition and content.

The staging of this exhibition coincides with the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) annual conference being hosted in Milwaukee, March 19-22, 2014.

Additionally, an illustrated 24-page booklet with scholarly text addressing Isupov's personal and cultural history as well as his career development and significance to the field will accompany the exhibition.

This exhibition is made possible in part by: Presenting Sponsors - Karen Johnson Boyd and William B. Boyd; SC Johnson; Windgate Charitable Foundation; Gold Sponsors - Sam and Gene Johnson Fund; National Endowment for the Arts; Racine United Arts Fund; Silver Sponsors - Osborne and Scekic Family Foundation; W.T. Walker Group, Inc.; Wisconsin Arts Board; Bronze Sponsors - 88NINE Radio Milwaukee; CNH America LLC; Corner House; Craft in America PBS Series; E.C. Styberg Foundation, Inc.; Educators Credit Union; In Sink Erator; Miracle on Canal Street; The Norbell Foundation; Perimeter Gallery, Chicago; Real Racine; Ruud Family Foundation; Carol C. Saunders.