London's David Bowie Centre to Open with 200 Treasures from a 90,000-Item Archive
London's David Bowie Centre opens September 13, 2025, unveiling 200 treasures from a 90,000-item archive at the V&A East Storehouse, offering unprecedented public access to the legendary artist's creative legacy.
The David Bowie Centre, located at the V&A East Storehouse in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, opens its doors to the public on September 13, 2025, marking a significant moment for fans and researchers of the iconic musician. The centre houses the complete David Bowie Archive, a collection of more than 90,000 items acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum from Bowie's estate, and showcases 200 carefully selected treasures in its inaugural displays[1][2][3].
The archive, described by V&A East curator Madeleine Haddon as "a veritable goldmine," spans Bowie's five-decade career and includes original costumes, musical instruments, handwritten lyrics, sketches, artworks, fan art, merchandise, and stage models[1][2]. Among the highlights are Freddie Burretti's "Life on Mars?" suit, the asymmetric catsuit by Kansai Yamamoto for Ziggy Stardust, and the Union Jack frockcoat designed with Alexander McQueen for the Earthling tour[2][3]. The centre also features Bowie's first-ever instrument—a saxophone bought by his father—and rare items such as Jim Henson-designed puppets for an unreleased music video and the clapperboard from "The Man Who Fell To Earth"[3].
Unprecedented Public Access
For the first time, the full Bowie archive is accessible to the public. Visitors can book appointments to view any item for free, with some objects available for supervised handling. The "Order an Object" system has already seen over 500 appointments booked, with the gold-threaded frockcoat from Bowie's 50th birthday concert among the most requested items[3][5]. The centre is designed as both a working archive and a living laboratory, encouraging visitors to engage directly with Bowie's creative process and legacy.
Insights into Bowie's Creative Universe
The archive reveals not only Bowie's public personas but also his behind-the-scenes work. Newly unearthed materials include notes for "The Spectator," an unrealized musical set in 18th-century East London, and handwritten notes for a never-made film titled "Young Americans," reflecting on international politics and identity[1][6]. Curator Madeleine Haddon emphasized that Bowie meticulously documented his creative process, saving everything from scribbled notes to elaborate concept sketches, offering a rich legacy for artists and researchers[1][9].
The centre's displays are curated to highlight key moments, influences, and collaborations throughout Bowie's career. Guest curators, including US musician Nile Rodgers and the rock band The Last Dinner Party, have contributed to the rotating mini-displays, which will be refreshed regularly to showcase different facets of Bowie's artistry[7].
Community Engagement and Legacy
The V&A East Storehouse, which opened in June 2025, aims to foster community engagement and inspire creativity. The museum consulted young people from four London boroughs to ensure the displays resonate with diverse audiences[9]. London Mayor Sadiq Khan praised the centre as "a must see for fans of David Bowie," highlighting its role in making Bowie's immense collection freely available to the public for the first time[3].
The David Bowie Centre stands as a testament to the artist's enduring influence on music, design, and visual culture, offering new insights into his creative universe and inviting visitors to explore, connect, and be inspired.