The Victoria and Albert Museum's new V&A East Storehouse in London is redefining the traditional museum visit by offering unprecedented public access to its vast collection. Located in the city's revitalised Olympic Park, the Storehouse provides direct engagement with over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives. Visitors are encouraged to touch many items and can even book personalised "Order an Object" sessions to interact with specific artifacts, such as a 1954 Balenciaga gown or a Vivienne Westwood sweater.
Designed by the firm behind New York's High Line, the Storehouse features oversized pieces like Picasso stage curtains and Mughal architecture. The building also houses the upcoming David Bowie Center, aiming to engage local communities and promote transparency in museum practices. Emphasising openness, the museum showcases conservation work and allows visitors to view staff activities, aligning with its mission to make the entire national collection accessible to everyone.
This innovative approach marks a significant shift in museum culture, moving away from the traditional "do not touch" policy. By allowing direct interaction with artifacts, the V&A East Storehouse fosters a more immersive and personal connection between visitors and the museum's extensive collection. The initiative also aims to engage local communities and promote transparency in museum practices, reflecting a broader trend towards inclusivity and accessibility in cultural institutions.
The Storehouse is part of a larger cultural district developed after the 2012 London Olympics, situated in the city's reimagined Olympic Park. This development aims to revitalise the area and provide a hub for cultural and community activities. The V&A East Storehouse's opening is a key component of this vision, offering a space where visitors can engage with art and history in a dynamic and interactive environment.
As the V&A East Storehouse opens its doors, it sets a new standard for museum experiences, blending education, engagement, and accessibility. Its innovative approach is expected to inspire other institutions to reconsider their visitor engagement strategies, paving the way for a more interactive and inclusive future in the museum sector.
