The David Bowie legacy is about to light up the nation like a Ziggy Stardust starburst. A treasure trove of unseen artefacts from the music icon's life and career will embark on a UK tour next year, with stops in Scotland, the north-east, Yorkshire, and the south-west. The 'David Bowie: On Tour' exhibition is a V&A masterstroke, showcasing more than 100 extraordinary items that have never been seen by the public eye before.
Starting at the V&A Dundee in November 2026, visitors will get up close to original Ziggy Stardust costumes designed by Freddie Burretti and Kansai Yamamoto. These are not just any outfits – they're the real deal, straight from the dressing rooms of a rock legend. You'll also see an acoustic guitar used during that iconic era, alongside tour sketches and personal mementos that give you a glimpse into Bowie's creative process.
Director Sir Tristram Hunt calls this exhibition a game-changer in making Bowie's story accessible to new audiences across the nation. And it is – with four distinct sections taking you on a chronological journey through his multifaceted career. You'll see the keys from his Berlin apartment, where he recorded 'Low' and 'Heroes', as well as concept art for the 'Low' album cover that looks like something from a sci-fi comic book.
Expect to be amazed by the sheer breadth of items on display – including Natasha Korniloff's costume from the 1980 "Ashes To Ashes" music video, a clapperboard from the 1975 film 'The Man Who Fell To Earth', and Bowie's first instrument, a Grafton Alto saxophone bought by his dad in 1961. These artefacts paint an incredible picture of Bowie's evolution as an artist, from glam rock to soul and krautrock influences.
The tour will then make its way to Showtown in Blackpool (June to September 2027), the Bowes Museum in County Durham (October 2027 to January 2028), the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull (February to May 2028), and the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery (June to September 2028). With more locations to be announced, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience Bowie's incredible legacy on tour.
Bowie left an indelible mark on British music with five UK number one singles and 11 UK number one albums. His artistic journey took him from glam rock to soul and krautrock influences – a testament to his boundless creativity. And it's this creativity that will shine bright like a star in 'David Bowie: On Tour', an exhibition not to be missed.