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A massive new archive chronicling the life and career of legendary musician David Bowie is now open to the public in London. Located at the David Bowie Centre at V&A East Storehouse, the collection contains some 90,000 items, including handwritten song lyrics, stage costumes, and personal notebooks. Fans and researchers can now book appointments to see this extensive collection, which offers a deep look into the artist’s creative process.
A Treasure Trove of Creativity
The archive is a comprehensive look at the “chameleon of rock,” as Bowie was known for constantly reinventing his artistic persona. Among the items are 70,000 photographs, 400 costumes from iconic eras like Ziggy Stardust, and 150 musical instruments. Curators highlight that the collection also includes more personal items, such as Post-it notes outlining ideas for an unfinished 18th-century musical called The Spectator that he was working on before his death in 2016.
An Enduring Influence
The curators describe the archive as a resource that not only tells the story of Bowie’s life but also shows his enduring influence on popular culture. It’s a space where his work across music, fashion, and art can be explored, offering inspiration to new generations of artists. The collection promises to provide a fascinating look at how Bowie worked as a “true polymath” and a human being.
