Morley’s Sold-Out Penny Lecture on the David Bowie Collection at the V&A

Last week Morley College London hosted a sold-out Penny Lecture that offered an extraordinary glimpse into one of the most distinctive ambitious cultural collections of our time: the creation of the David Bowie Centre at V&A East Storehouse.

The evening brought together music lovers, design and fashion enthusiasts, and cultural historians for an exclusive talk by V&A textile conservators Elizabeth Gillions and Kirstin Ingram, who shared the inside story of preserving and curating Bowie’s personal archive — a treasure trove that spans iconic stage costumes, handwritten lyrics, and instruments played by the artist himself.

The talk also explored Bowie’s enduring influence on fashion, art, and culture, and why his personal archive found its home at V&A East Storehouse — a space dedicated to innovation and engagement with the public.

Although this event was sold out, the Penny Lecture series continues to bring thought-provoking arts and performance conversations to the heart of London. Stay tuned for upcoming lectures and secure your place early — these events fill fast! Our next Penny Lecture is avaliable to book – in February 2026 with London History blogger Jack Chesher