TOYS!: A new multigenerational exhibition rooted in the joy of the childhood toy

As I look around my home office, I realize I might have a toy problem. From where I sit, I can see so much history as I spy a Hot Wheels car, Carol from “Where the Wild Things Are,” and a talking Po doll from the popular kids show Teletubbies. 

And while these toys on the surface when created were just something to play with as a kid (or child at heart), they also each represent a plethora of happy memories and good stories as to why they still are with me as I navigate my adult years.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is hoping their new exhibition, TOYS!, will inspire you, too, to venture out to this very interactive, multi-generational exhibition of toys and games that is certain to rekindle childhood memories and spark fresh dialogue with those who attend.

Curating this collection from the Museum’s Collections is a diverse set of folks in our region, and this new exhibition spans many generations, featuring vintage toys like paper dolls, Erector Sets, and Mr. Potato Head to Gen X favs like Holly Hobbie and Hot Wheels, to a newer generation with iconic names like Super Mario or My Little Pony. 

You will also get to see how Barbie and G.I. Joe have adapted over time to appeal to many different generations as well as the times. But one thing remains: their appeal to entertain children.

As you view this collection, you will also see how these toys and games have really changed over time, but our desire to harness these items for the imaginative play (thankfully) never seems to go out of style. 

“Visitors will remember their favorite toys from childhood, as well as make new memories with their family, friends, and classmates,” says Kate Kocienski, vice president of marketing & PR at the GRPM. “The exhibit is meant to spark intergenerational conversations about the importance of imagination and play, and how toys have changed over time.” 

Museum members have the first chance to experience TOYS! on Saturday, October 27 during the members-only preview from 8 to 10 a.m. Members can RSVP to the members only preview at grpm.org/Toys. TOYS! will be included with general admission into the Museum.