THANKS to the efforts one of Blackpool's leading jewellers, the most prestigious Jewish art collection ever shown in the north of England is being exhibited at the Grundy Art Gallery until October.

Michael Hyman, managing director of Leonard Dews, was so determined to bring the collection to Blackpool that he decided to sponsor the exhibition as part of his company's 120th anniversary celebrations.

The 70 paintings on display, which were carefully selected by Grundy's curator Lynn Fade, are drawn from the Ben Uri collection which is normally housed in London.

The collection of works by prominent Jewish artists contains some stunning pieces, including bronze sculptures by the famous Jacob Epstein.

Equally compelling are some of the lesser known works such as a picture by Leo Haas showing a line of children being marched into a concentration camp while others look on in horror.

Lynn Fade said: "It's a very evocative show containing some outstanding examples of 20th century fine art."

Michael Hyman said: "I am personally delighted that the Ben Uri collection has been brought to Blackpool.

"It is particularly significant that this important collection of Anglo-Jewish art has been displayed here as one of the focal points of the 120th anniversary of Leonard Dews in Blackpool."

The exhibition is also sponsored by Breitling, makers of fine Swiss watches, which has just sealed a major partnership with Leonard Dews, Blackpool Council and the Government's National Heritage Arts Sponsorship scheme .

The exhibition includes a full programme of school workshops; Jewish days for children; sculpture classes for youngsters; and tactile workshops for blind and visually impaired people.

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