Collections Show @ Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool, until 18 Jan

Blackpool is a town known for its knickknack shops and bizarre paraphernalia, something that the latest exhibition at the Grundy Art Gallery is fully embracing. Looking to explore the idea of the collector, an open call out was sent to residents of Blackpool and the Fylde Coast to display their personal collections. The result has transformed the Grundy into a cabinet of local curiosities.

Since taking over as the gallery’s curator earlier this year, Richard Parry expressed his interest in celebrating the town’s heritage and the Grundy’s own collection within the gallery’s programme. Displayed alongside selected private collections are some of the gallery’s more unusual items, including the Cyril Critchlow Collection of ephemera and printed material relating to Blackpool’s entertainment industry.

The exhibition has so many interesting objects it’s hard to take everything in on your first visit. There is a cabinet of Bassett’s Jelly Babies marketing material collected by the Reverend Michael Payne, who journeys far and wide delivering Jelly Baby-related talks. Another cabinet contains Sandy Dunne’s lifelong collection of charity badges; behind which you glance a full collection of Now That’s What I Call Music! compilations.

Although a lot of the works are visually enticing, it’s the stories behind them that are often more captivating. A wall of kitsch paintings by local artist Leonard Rodwell demonstrates his dedication to the subject of Blackpool. The paintings were brought to Parry’s attention when Trinity Hospice, currently caring for Rodwell, called to seek advice after he donated his paintings to them. This subsequently led to their inclusion in the exhibition, a lifelong ambition for 84-year-old Rodwell.

An alternative history of Blackpool, Parry’s curious concept brings the private collection into public view to reveal some unique objects, while enlightening us on the secrets of the Grundy’s own collection and its connection to Blackpool’s unique history. [Emma Sumner]