Childhood Nintendo of JME and Banksy vest of Stormzy to be featured in new V&A East Museum

Exploring the intersection of painting, film, sound, and fashion, The Music is Black: A British Story exhibition showcases over 200 objects that delve into themes of resistance and celebration within the Black British community. From the earliest stringed instruments to contemporary figures such as Dizzee Rascal, Stormzy, and Little Simz, the collection offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of Black British music and culture. An immersive sound experience complements the exhibition, highlighting the emergence of eight distinct Black British genres including 2 tone, lovers rock, Brit funk, jungle, drum & bass, trip hop, UK garage, and grime.

A standout feature of the exhibition includes Skin’s Daniel Pollitt ‘Clit Rock’ suit and Stormzy’s iconic Banksy-designed stab-proof vest, both worn during their memorable performances at Glastonbury in 2019 and 2022, respectively. Additionally, visitors can view artifacts such as a guitar donated by Joan Armtrading, Shirley Bassey’s golden Bond dress, JME’s childhood Nintendo set-up, and the Comme des Garçons outfit donned by Little Simz for her 2023 Dazed cover shoot.

The display also includes over 50 photographs spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s, many of which are being showcased for the first time. Of particular note are Dennis Morris’s early images of Bob Marley and Laura ‘Hyperfrank’ Brosnan’s photograph capturing Skepta’s family celebrating his 2016 Mercury Prize win.

With a focus on local identity, the museum has actively involved young people, creatives, and residents of east London in its development. The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, emphasized the significance of the inaugural exhibition in recognizing the impact of Black British music on a global scale. He stated, “Following on from the successful opening of V&A East Storehouse, V&A East Museum is boosting East Bank’s cultural offering even further, helping to build a better London for everyone.”

In addition to The Music is Black: A British Story exhibition, the museum features two permanent galleries titled “Why We Make,” which spotlight global culture through a contemporary lens. Showcasing over 500 objects from the V&A’s permanent collection, these galleries include iconic pieces such as Molly Goddard’s pink tulle dress, ballet costumes by Leigh Bowery, and designs by Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood.

The Music is Black: A British Story exhibition opens today, with ticket prices starting at £11 for students and individuals under 26 years old, and £22.50 for standard tickets on weekdays and £24.50 on weekends.