Inside the V&A Storehouse’s New David Bowie Centre: "You Definitely Haven’t Seen It All – There’s So Much More"

Step inside the David Bowie Centre at the V&A Storehouse to explore over 90,000 iconic items from Bowie’s creative universe, revealing layers of his genius you never knew.

A Gateway to Bowie’s Boundless Creativity

If you’re a David Bowie fan, or simply a lover of pop culture history, the V&A’s new David Bowie Centre is nothing short of a treasure trove. Opening on September 13, 2025, at the V&A East Storehouse in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, this centre houses over 90,000 of Bowie’s personal possessions. It’s an intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life and artistry of the Thin White Duke—far beyond what you’ve seen before.

Union Jack frockcoat designed by David Bowie and Alexander McQueen, 1997

The Storehouse itself is a fascinating cultural hub, hosting more than half a million items ranging from Glastonbury Festival archives to costumes worn by legends like PJ Harvey and Elton John. David Bowie’s extensive collection now takes a proud place among these treasures.

Not Just an Exhibition — A Living Archive

The David Bowie Centre isn’t your typical museum display. Curator Dr. Madeleine Haddon describes it as "a working archive," inviting visitors to experience Bowie’s world in a way that feels personal and dynamic. "This is a smaller and more intimate experience," she explains, "It’s not an exhibition, it’s getting behind the scenes."

The David Bowie Centre at the V&A Storehouse, London

From Bowie’s legendary Alexander McQueen Union Jack ‘Earthling’ jacket to costumes from his Ziggy Stardust and Let’s Dance eras, the centre offers an astonishing variety of artifacts. You can also glimpse storyboards for plays, handwritten lyrics, musical instruments that Bowie played, and even the key to the Berlin flat he shared with Iggy Pop. For fans, it’s like stepping into Bowie’s creative sanctuary.

A Never-Ending Journey of Discovery

What surprised even the curators was the sheer depth of Bowie’s archive. “You definitely haven’t seen it all – there’s so much more to see,” Dr. Haddon enthuses. The collection includes previously unknown guitars from his early days, costumes thought lost, and many never-before-seen sketches and notes.

A V&A technician prepares a display of Bowie’s ‘Unrealised Projects’

These ‘unrealised projects’ are particularly fascinating. Bowie was constantly juggling ideas for films, musicals, concerts, and TV shows — many of which never came to fruition but offer a window into his restless, inventive mind. Detailed storyboards, character sketches, and notes reveal his visionary process, highlighting his endless curiosity and creativity.

Bowie: The Polymath and Pioneer

Dr. Haddon points out that Bowie was not just a musician but an artistic polymath. “He was an artist, writer, actor, and designer too,” she notes. The archive reflects this multi-dimensional creativity, inspiring today’s artists who refuse to be boxed into a single genre.

The suit Bowie wore to the 1975 Grammy Awards, crafted by Jan Girard

The centre highlights Bowie’s massive cultural impact, from music and fashion to art. For example, it includes a fan letter from Lady Gaga, who credits Bowie as a major influence on her career. It also explores Bowie’s role as a gender fluid pioneer in the ‘70s, breaking down boundaries with his bold costumes and makeup.

Intimate Details That Make Bowie Feel Close

One of the most endearing parts of the collection are the everyday moments—the doodles on setlists, to-do lists, and even menus from his time in Berlin with Iggy Pop. These candid details provide a vulnerable and human side to the icon.

Set list for Bowie’s ‘Station to Station’ tour, 1976

“They’re mixed up together—everything from exercising to reconnecting with collaborators,” Dr. Haddon says. Such glimpses show how Bowie balanced the banal with the brilliant in his daily life.

Interactive and Ever-Changing Displays

The David Bowie Centre isn’t static. About 75% of the items will remain on display for the next two years, while others rotate every six months. This rotation allows for fresh perspectives and keeps the experience exciting for repeat visitors.

The centre also collaborates with guest curators like Nile Rodgers and The Last Dinner Party, creating special exhibitions. For instance, an upcoming theme explores the influence of jungle and drum n’ bass on Bowie’s ‘90s work, tying into a broader exploration of Black British Music at the V&A.

Life mask of David Bowie painted to resemble his Aladdin Sane makeup

A Unique Legacy That May Never Be Matched

Could another pop culture figure inspire a centre like this? The answer seems to be no. Bowie’s vast archive of 90,000 objects, spanning his entire career, is exceptional. As Dr. Haddon says, “Not many pop culture figures saved everything. It’ll be a while before we find someone else like him.”

This archive not only celebrates Bowie’s music but also his entire creative legacy, making it a must-visit for fans and creatives alike.

Final Thoughts: A Celebration Worth Experiencing

Visiting the David Bowie Centre is like stepping into the mind of a cultural titan who never stopped reinventing himself. It’s not just a collection of artifacts but a narrative of brilliance, experimentation, and influence that continues to ripple through pop culture today.

FAQ

• How many items are in the David Bowie Centre collection? Over 90,000 items ranging from costumes and instruments to handwritten notes and storyboards.
• Is the David Bowie Centre a traditional exhibition? No, it’s a working archive offering a more intimate and interactive experience than a typical exhibition.
• Are the items on display permanent? About 75% of the collection will stay on view for two years; other items will rotate every six months.
• Can I access the Bowie archive online? Yes, visitors can explore the collection online and make appointments to view specific items at the V&A Storehouse.
• Are there special curated exhibitions within the centre? Yes, guest curators like Nile Rodgers and The Last Dinner Party contribute rotating displays focused on different themes.

For those wanting to bring a touch of Bowie’s magic home, shop your favorite album cover poster at our store here. Celebrate the legacy of Bowie with art that inspires every day.