A new archive celebrating David Bowie’s life and career is now open to the public in London. The collection features around 90,000 items, including handwritten lyrics, fan letters, personal notebooks, and Bowie’s iconic costumes.
Fans and researchers can access the David Bowie Centre at V&A East Storehouse in east London by appointment. The archive showcases the late singer’s influence on music, fashion, drama, and visual art across his five-decade career.
David Bowie, known as the “chameleon” of rock, passed away in 2016 at age 69, just two days after releasing his final album, Blackstar. His innovative style and creativity left a lasting mark on global popular culture.
Curators said the archive contains 70,000 photographs, 400 stage costumes, 150 musical instruments, and a large number of personal notebooks. A separate display of 200 items highlights Bowie’s creative ideas and artistic evolution.
Lead curator Madeleine Haddon explained, “The displays chart David Bowie’s artistic journey and show his enduring influence on contemporary culture. His work continues to inspire artists worldwide.”
Among the items are Post-it notes with ideas for an unfinished musical titled The Spectator. The project was inspired by 18th-century figures like painter William Hogarth and London thief Jack Sheppard. Harriet Reed, curator of contemporary performance at the V&A, said the notes provide insight into Bowie’s creative process.
“This archive allows people to see David Bowie not only as an artist but also as a human being,” Reed added. “His work and imagination remain a source of inspiration for anyone exploring creativity.”
The David Bowie archive offers fans a rare chance to explore the private world and legacy of one of the most influential figures in music history.
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