David Bowie Archive Set to Dazzle Bristol: A Celebration of Music, Fashion, and Art

A groundbreaking exhibition featuring the iconic David Bowie archive is making its way to Bristol, offering a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. The V&A's David Bowie: On Tour will showcase over 100 items, many of which have never been on public display before, at various locations across the UK, including the V&A Dundee, Showtown in Blackpool, the Bowes Museum in County Durham, the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull, and finally, the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

The exhibition promises to be a thrilling experience for fans, with an array of items that highlight Bowie's remarkable creativity and innovative spirit. Among the exhibits are costumes from his legendary Ziggy Stardust era, designed by the renowned Freddie Burretti and Kansai Yamamoto, as well as sketches for the accompanying tour and an acoustic guitar used during that period. These rare and fascinating artifacts will undoubtedly provide a captivating insight into the artistic vision and process of the man who revolutionized the music and fashion worlds.

Sir Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A, emphasized the significance of this national partnership, stating that the exhibition will bring highlights from David Bowie's extraordinary archive to audiences across the UK for the first time. By collaborating with museums and venues nationwide, the V&A aims to open up Bowie's story in the places connected to his life and legacy, ensuring that people across the country can experience these remarkable objects where they live and be inspired by his enduring creativity.

The exhibition will be divided into four sections, with other notable items on display including Bowie's keys from his Berlin apartment, where he recorded the iconic albums Low and Heroes in 1977, and concept art for the cover of Low. Additionally, the exhibition will feature the stunning Natasha Korniloff-designed costume Bowie wore in the video for his 1980 single Ashes To Ashes, a clapperboard used for the filming of The Man Who Fell To Earth (1975), and his first instrument, a Grafton Alto saxophone, which was bought for him by his father in 1961.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest artists of all time, David Bowie achieved unparalleled success during his lifetime, with five UK number one singles and 11 UK number one albums. His bold and daring approach to music, fashion, and art has left an indelible mark on popular culture, influencing generations of artists and fans alike. From his early days as a pop singer in the 1960s to his rise to fame in the 1970s with the glam rock albums The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars and Aladdin Sane, Bowie's innovative spirit and fearless creativity continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

As the David Bowie Centre at the V&A Storehouse opened its doors in September last year, featuring a permanent display of artifacts, this touring exhibition offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience the magic of Bowie's archive in person. With its rich collection of artifacts, costumes, and memorabilia, David Bowie: On Tour is an unmissable event for anyone who has ever been touched by the genius of this extraordinary artist.

The exhibition's arrival in Bristol is eagerly anticipated, with fans and art enthusiasts alike looking forward to immersing themselves in the fascinating world of David Bowie. As the city prepares to welcome this remarkable collection, it is clear that the legacy of this iconic artist will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.