David Bowie, 1982. Photograph by Greg Gorman. (The David Bowie Archive)
He blasted onto the music scene in 1969, an artist of extraterrestrial presence and dazzling star power. David Bowie (aka Ziggy Stardust, the Thin White Duke, and other memorable reinventions) was one of rock’s most pioneering and influential performers and his life and work are the subject of David Bowie Is, an exhibition featuring hundreds of objects drawn from the performer’s personal archive. It began five years ago at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, traveled to 10 international cities, and ends its world tour at the Brooklyn Museum in July.
Flamboyant costumes, handwritten lyric sheets, original album art, photographs, and videos trace Bowie’s career. The show takes a fascinating look at an artist whose personal reinventions, innovative collaborations with the likes of Lou Reed and Brian Eno, and fearless upending of social traditions have left an indelible mark on our culture.
Matthew Yokobosky, senior curator of fashion and material culture at the Brooklyn Museum, re-designed the exhibition and added 100 new works. He discusses how the exhibition was adapted for the Brooklyn Museum’s unique gallery spaces and audience, and how the content and design of the exhibition merged to create an immersive, visitor experience featuring the art of David Bowie. Complete your experience enjoying a Bowie-inspired cocktail.
Other Connections
Listen to Matthew Yokobosky’s interview on the Not Old Better podcast with host Paul Vogelzang.
