7 Reasons Why You Should Visit The V&A
The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance, home to 145 galleries full of art, sculptures, textiles and much more. If you’ve never had the chance to visit the museum, here are 7 reasons why you need to put it on your bucket list for 2023.
The V&A Is A Cultural Landmark
Established in 1852, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance. Home to incredible artwork from famous artists such as William Morris and John French, the museum can be found in a huge, beautiful building, right next to the Natural History Museum.
Every year, visitors and artists alike flock to the museum, eager to see the magnificent works of art on display in the 145 galleries. The museum holds many of the UK's national collections and every room is simply stunning. If you’re planning to go to London and tick off some of the UK’s best cultural landmarks, the V&A is a must-visit destination.
It Features Striking Works Of Art From Around The World
From Japan to Korea, the Middle East to China, the V&A features art from countless countries across the world. Not only can you learn more about famous artists that you love, you can also discover new favourites.
The museum was founded with a mission: to educate designers, manufacturers and the public in art and design, and for this reason reproductions of great art and architecture from across the world, regarded as educational tools 'superior to drawings', have always formed a substantial part of the V&A's collections. For example, Trajan’s Column, a plaster cast of a stunning column that is two stories high, is on display in the V&A's celebrated Cast Courts. This is one of the stars of the V&A collection and is a replica of the original marble Trajan’s Column found in Rome.
The V&A Host Brilliant Exhibitions
The V&A regularly host exhibitions, providing an in-depth look into popular culture, art, fashion and much more. Some of their previous exhibitions included fashion brands such as Christian Dior, Alexander McQueen and worldwide famous characters such as Alice in Wonderland. Currently, the museum is offering an exhibition on the colourful and dynamic popular culture of South Korea. Titled ‘Hallyu! The Korean Wave’, this brilliant exhibition explores the creative industries of cinema, drama, music and much more.
Every Room Is A Masterpiece In Design
Soon after visiting the V&A, you’ll realise that every room is a masterpiece in design. From marble hallways to jewelled rooms, every wall, floor and even the lighting is carefully curated to create the most impactful experience. With over 100 galleries over 6 floors, every room is built to impress and uniquely styled.
Even the museum café, which is known as the world’s first museum café, contains beautiful, marbled designs and sweeping ceilings. The cafe includes ‘the Morris Room’, a refreshment room designed in 1866 by William Morris himself, with the help of the famous Victorian architect Philip Webb and Pre-Raphaelite painter Edward Burne-Jones.
The V&A Is A Charity
Founded in 1852 during the reign of Queen Victoria, the V&A aimed to make art accessible to anyone. Over a century later it still does exactly that, alongside creating a space for visitors and artists to get lost in art and feel wholly inspired by the designs on show.
Admission to the museum is free and so the museum relies on support from the members of the public, companies, and charitable organisations. Supporting the museum by visiting or donating means you’re helping keep works of art accessible to all. And if you’re a fan of the art on display at the V&A, why not browse our exclusive collection of V&A prints, inspired by the V&A archives?
It’s In The Heart Of London
London is a number one tourist location for those on holiday or locals looking for a day trip. It’s full of restaurants, museums, shows, shops and much more. The V&A South Kensington is located in the bustling heart of London, next to other cultural landmarks such as The Science Museum and Kensington Palace. If you’re planning a trip to this area, there are many things to do around the V&A.
There Are Countless Things To Do
Whether you’ve been before or it's your first time, going to the V&A is a priceless way to spend your day in London, as there are countless things to do. At the V&A you can take in the art, visit an exhibition, attend a talk, browse the gift shop, eat in the café and much more.
Will you visit this V&A this year? Whether you’re in the mood to browse the galleries, visit an exhibition, eat lunch, attend a talk or take a course, the museum has something for everyone who walks through its doors.