Magnificent Obsessions: The Artist as Collector

Magnificent Obsessions is the first major exhibition in the UK to present the fascinating personal collections of post-war and contemporary artists. Ranging from mass-produced memorabilia and popular collectibles to one-of-akind curiosities, rarefied artefacts, and specimens, these collections provide insight into the inspirations, influences, motives, and obsessions of artists. While some artists are connoisseurs, others hoard objects, never letting them go. While many live-with and make direct use of their collections, others keep them under wraps or in storage. Collecting objects for research and study is key to the practice of many artists in the show. Presented alongside examples of their work, their collections, in turn, help to elucidate their art.