WIRRAL-based art handler Kevin Simons has turned curator for a once-in-a-lifetime lifetime exhibition at Tate Liverpool.

His art is very much in the right place It could have been called ‘hanging around’ or even ‘crate expectations’ but ‘Ken’s Show’ sums up the latest must see display at the Albert Dock.

Ken admits he is ‘not that keen’ on the title...

But to keep art fans intrigued even more he has added the line ‘Exploring the Unseen.’ Ken, now retired, lives in New Ferry and is enjoying being centre stage for the Gallery’s 30 year-anniversary.

It could be seen as the art world’s equivalent of a footballer’s testimonial.

Ken likes that comparison.

Having installed thousands of artworks in his career, Ken has been given the great gift of choosing his own 30 favourites.

He told the Globe: "I call it Exploring the Unseen because each work considers the mysterious spaces in our world.’’

The collection includes work by William Turner and Barbara Hepworth alongside artists who had their first showing at the Tate Liverpool.

Ken who loves space in his work also likes the open spaces and likes birdwatching away from the gallery walls.

He is featured in a very informative short film as you enter the gallery where he explains the diverse range of work on show.

Ken has been at the Tate since 1988 when it opened.

He cites Capital of Culture year 2008 as very special.

At a pre opening launch he told the Globe: "This is an amazing opportunity to display some of my favourite works from the Tate Collections after so many years getting to know the works personally.

And he says he found the project very rewarding and eye-opening even for him.

He says: "It is through this hands-on interaction and curating this show that I learnt and understood much more about artists’ exploration of space.’’

Art lovers will certainly enjoy this 30 year retrospective with a personal touch from a usually unseen Tate Liverpool stalwart.

FIVE STARS - A UNIQUE ART INSIGHT.

On until June 17, for more details visit Tate.org.uk