Running from 23rd March – 11th August the V&A are presenting the first international retrospective of Bowie’s extraordinary career as a cult icon; following his life and work from starting out as David Jones in Brixton, through the rise and fall of Ziggy Stardust and his 1980’s comeback.

This exsquisite exhibition displays an array of Bowie’s personal items such as never-before-seen storyboards, handwritten set lists and lyrics, original costumes, album artwork, sketches, musical scores and diary entries revealing the evolution of some of his most creative ideas.  More than 300 articles are exhibited here in the form of fashion, photography and film/video. Bowie has even submitted some of his own instruments.  The exhibition explores his numerous collaborations with various other artists and designers.

Other incredible contributions include photography by Brian Duffy; album sleeve artwork by Guy Peellaert and Edward Bell; visual excerpts from films and live performances including The Man Who Fell to Earth, music videos such as Boys Keep Swinging and set designs created for the Diamond Dogs tour (1974).

This is one for all the Bowie fanatics and anyone looking to relive the Bowie years!

Tickets are available to purchase at the Museum in advance or on the day of your visit. You are advised to arrive at the V&A for when the Museum opens at 10.00 for the best chance of purchasing a ticket. Please note tickets bought on the day may not be for immediate entry to the exhibition, but for later on that day. The price for a Full Adult ticket is £15.50.

 

Words by Joelle Thurston