V&A East Opens with Exploration of Black Music and Culture

The V&A East Museum opened this weekend in Stratford, London, marking a significant addition to the city’s cultural landscape. The opening follows the launch of Sadler’s Wells East and the V&A Storehouse, contributing to the East Bank hub’s investment exceeding £600 million.

Museum Identity and Design

The V&A East aims to establish a distinct identity rooted in east London, incorporating input from local creatives and young people in its development. Two permanent, free galleries, titled Why We Make, display a diverse collection of objects, ranging from historical artifacts like Renaissance paintings and Japanese incense boxes to contemporary pieces such as Molly Goddard’s pink tulle dress, famously worn by Jodie Comer in Killing Eve.

Mayor Khan’s Vision for Accessibility

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan emphasized the museum’s commitment to accessibility and youth engagement during the opening event. He stated his desire to create a space that feels welcoming and inclusive, contrasting with his own experiences visiting museums in South Kensington as a child. Khan highlighted the importance of fostering an early appreciation for art and culture, aiming to provide a lasting cultural legacy for east London, alongside other institutions like the London College of Fashion, University College London, and a forthcoming BBC headquarters.

The Music is Black Exhibition

The inaugural paid exhibition, The Music is Black, explores the history of black British music over the past 125 years. Mayor Khan noted the significance of telling this story in east London, allowing residents to connect with their heritage. The exhibition, curated by Jacqueline Springer, features a wide range of artifacts, from early stringed instruments to contemporary works by artists like Dizzee Rascal, Stormzy, and Little Simz.

Musical Heritage and Contemporary Artists

The exhibition traces the evolution of black music in Britain, showcasing the emergence of genres like lovers rock, 2 Tone, drum’n’bass, jungle, trip hop, UK garage, and grime. Highlights include Shirley Bassey’s Bond dress, Pauline Black’s suit, Joan Armatrading’s handwritten chords, and Stormzy’s stab-proof vest. Personal items like JME’s childhood Nintendo and photographs from the first Notting Hill Carnival offer further insights into the cultural landscape.

Exhibition Scope and Future Investment

While the exhibition attempts to cover a vast amount of material, some groupings are slightly condensed. Nevertheless, The Music is Black reflects the museum’s mission and its commitment to modern, welcoming spaces. Mayor Khan underscored the importance of continued investment in London’s cultural future, stating that “great cities… don’t stand still.”