London, UK – The highly anticipated David Bowie Centre for the Study of Performing Arts is set to open its doors on September 13, 2025, as part of the new V&A East Storehouse in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This landmark cultural institution will house an extensive collection of over 90,000 items from the iconic musician's archive, offering an unprecedented look into his creative life. The opening has already generated significant excitement, with one social media user, Lewis, remarking, > "this must be one of the coolest things in the entire city and it’s brand new. don’t see that every day."
The V&A East Storehouse, a major component of London's East Bank cultural quarter, will provide public access to a vast array of artifacts, including stage outfits, handwritten lyrics, instruments, and other personal effects spanning six decades of Bowie's career. The David Bowie Centre aims to be a global resource for researchers and fans alike, fostering a deeper understanding of his profound impact on music, fashion, and culture. Its establishment underscores London's continued role as a leading global cultural hub.
This new addition to the city's cultural landscape is expected to draw visitors from around the world, contributing to the local economy and enhancing the East Bank's reputation as a vibrant destination. The V&A acquired the David Bowie Archives from Bowie's estate in 2023, paving the way for this dedicated centre. The initiative reflects a growing trend in preserving and presenting the legacies of influential artists through immersive and accessible public collections.
Beyond the David Bowie Centre, the V&A East Storehouse, which opens in May 2025, will feature over a quarter of a million objects from the V&A's wider collection, many previously held in storage. The broader East Bank project also includes Sadler's Wells East and the London College of Fashion, solidifying the area as a significant cultural and educational precinct. The centre's opening is poised to be a major highlight in London's 2025 cultural calendar, offering a unique and engaging experience for all.