The anticipation surrounding the V&A East Storehouse has been palpable since its announcement in February of last year, and the excitement reached new heights during this morning’s press event in London. The event unveiled crucial details about the upcoming cultural hub, including its innovative Order an Object service, exciting new acquisitions, the design of opening displays, and an in-depth look at the highly anticipated David Bowie Centre. This announcement marks a significant step forward in making the V&A’s extensive collections more accessible to the public, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to celebrating art, culture, and creativity.
At the heart of the event were V&A’s Deputy Director Tim Reeve and V&A East’s Director Gus Casely-Hayford, who set the stage for a day filled with discussion and discovery. They emphasized the Storehouse’s role as a beacon of creativity and cultural exchange in East London. The event also featured a panel discussion led by the insightful Naz Hamdi, which provided a deeper dive into the vision for V&A East Storehouse. Attendees were treated to a sneak peek inside the Collections Hall, where they could envision how the space would foster a new kind of engagement with art and culture.
Opening in September 2025: A New Era for David Bowie Fans
Set to open its doors on September 13, 2025, the V&A East Storehouse will feature the free-to-access David Bowie Centre. This exciting initiative represents a groundbreaking achievement, as it will house David Bowie’s extensive archive, recently acquired through the generosity of the David Bowie Estate, the Blavatnik Family Foundation, and Warner Music Group. For the first time, Bowie’s archive—comprising over 90,000 items—will be made accessible to the public, allowing fans and scholars alike to explore the creative journey of one of music’s most influential figures.
The archive showcases Bowie not only as a musical innovator but also as a cultural icon who championed self-expression and reinvention. Visitors can expect to see an array of highlights, including the iconic stage costumes from his Ziggy Stardust era, designed by Freddie Burretti in 1972. The collection will also feature handwritten lyrics from some of his most memorable songs, such as “Fame,” “Heroes,” and “Ashes to Ashes,” along with examples of the ‘cut up’ writing technique that Bowie adopted from the avant-garde writer William Burroughs.
Exploring the David Bowie Centre: An Interactive Experience
The David Bowie Centre will be thoughtfully divided into three distinct zones, each designed to offer a unique experience. These zones will include a mix of curated displays and immersive audio-visual installations, alongside quieter study areas where visitors can engage deeply with various aspects of Bowie’s archive. This innovative approach is intended to cater to diverse interests, allowing everyone from casual fans to dedicated scholars to find something that resonates with them.
Among the treasures on display will be Bowie’s celebrated costumes, musical instruments, make-up charts, stage models, Oblique Strategies card decks, personal notes, writings, sketches, designs, and much more. The V&A East Storehouse aims to provide an intimate connection to Bowie’s legacy, giving visitors a chance to experience his work and influence in unprecedented ways.
Youth Involvement: Shaping the Inaugural Displays
In developing the inaugural displays for the David Bowie Centre, the curatorial team made a conscious effort to involve the voices of young people. Collaborating with 18-25-year-olds from the four Olympic Boroughs of Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Waltham Forest, the team sought to ensure that the exhibitions reflect contemporary perspectives on Bowie’s multifaceted career. This initiative was facilitated by the London Legacy Development Corporation and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s Elevate Youth Voice program.
The resulting displays aim to spotlight the diverse range of objects within Bowie’s archive, showcasing his multi-dimensional creative approach. From his unrealized projects and collaborations to his profound influence on a new generation of artists—including musicians like Lana Del Rey and Lil Nas X and designers like Issey Miyake—the exhibitions will delve into the stories behind some of Bowie’s most iconic albums and personas.
A Dynamic Future: Guest Curators and Rotating Exhibitions
The David Bowie Centre will not only be a static exhibition space; it will evolve and grow through the involvement of rotating guest curators. These curators will include Bowie’s collaborators, experts in his life and work, contemporary creatives, and members of V&A East’s Youth Collective. This dynamic approach will bring fresh insights and perspectives to the archive, ensuring that the Centre remains a vibrant and relevant space for exploration and engagement.
As the V&A East Storehouse prepares to open its doors, the excitement surrounding the David Bowie Centre and its promise of inclusivity and accessibility is unmistakable. This new cultural hub is set to become a significant destination for those interested in the arts, music, and the enduring legacy of one of history’s most beloved artists. The journey to the opening day is just the beginning; the V&A East Storehouse aims to inspire future generations, encouraging visitors to connect with Bowie’s work and the transformative power of creativity.
Leave a Reply