World famous Buzzcocks artist Linder brings distinctive DIY exhibition to Blackpool's Grundy Art Gallery
“Celebrate her radical legacy right here on the Lancashire coast.”
An internationally recognised artist has brought her distinctive DIY punk aesthetic to Blackpool with the opening of a major new exhibition at the Grundy Art Gallery.
Linder: The Return of Linderland opened on Saturday, July 18, showcasing the artist’s drawings, photomontages, films and the influences behind her work.
Linder is perhaps best known for her connections to the punk and post-punk scene, including her work with Ludus and iconic album artwork for the Buzzcocks. Her career has since spanned fashion, music, performance, perfume, textiles and film.
‘Brilliant world-class arts and culture activity happening in Blackpool’
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council and cabinet member for tourism, arts and culture, said: “Following Grundy’s successful spring presentations of Monet with The National Gallery and the celebrated contemporary painter, Louise Giovanelli, summer at the Grundy continues the gallery’s ambitious programming.
“Working with our national partner Hayward Gallery Touring, Grundy is very proud to have been chosen as a location for this showstopping exhibition by the internationally recognised artist Linder.
“Grundy’s summer programme is just another example of the brilliant world-class arts and culture activity happening in Blackpool and why Blackpool is bidding to be City of Culture 2029.”
If successful, Blackpool would receive £10m to host a year-long celebration of arts and culture.
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The exhibition is a reconceived version of Danger Came Smiling, which premiered at London’s Hayward Gallery in 2025. It marks Linder’s first solo exhibition in the North West since 2000, with Blackpool chosen by the artist due to her roots in the region.
‘Radical legacy’
Brian Cass, Head of Hayward Gallery Touring, added: “We are delighted to partner with the Grundy Art Gallery to bring this newly adapted iteration of Linder’s landmark exhibition to Blackpool as part of the Southbank Centre’s Hayward Gallery Touring programme.
“In reimagining the show from the brutalist concrete of the Hayward to the coastal energy of the Grundy, Linder has placed her deep roots in the Northwest centre stage, brilliantly reflecting her dynamic energy and collaborative spirit. We are all incredibly proud to celebrate her radical legacy right here on the Lancashire coast.”
Works will be displayed alongside rarely seen drawings and a seascape by LS Lowry, while paintings from the Grundy’s collection have also been personally selected by Linder. The exhibition runs until October 3, with entry free. The Grundy is also hosting talks and workshops as part of the programme.