V&A Museum’s ‘Lost Music Venues’ Exhibition Opens for Public Contributions
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London is set to unveil a unique exhibition titled ‘Lost Music Venues’ in 2026, showcasing the rich history and cultural significance of the city’s numerous music venues that have closed over the years. In collaboration with the Music Venue Trust, the museum is inviting the public to contribute to this insightful project.
Contributions Sought from the Public
As part of the exhibition’s initiative, the V&A is asking for donations of “artefacts and music ephemera” that capture the essence of these lost venues, specifically items from the years 1988 to 2025. London residents have until May 31 of this year to submit potential contributions.
“We’re proudly working with the V&A on an exciting new project that champions grassroots music venues and their cultural legacy – and you can be a part of it,” the Music Venue Trust announced on Instagram.
Exhibition Theme and Focus
The ‘Lost Music Venues’ exhibition will shine a light on the importance of grassroots and independent music spaces across the UK, from small pubs to nightclubs. The exhibition will feature various types of memorabilia including:
- Flyers
- Signage
- Flooring
- Equipment
- Set lists
- Posters
- Photographs
- Film footage
- DJ decks
- Microphones
- Clothing and designs
Context of the Exhibition
The forthcoming exhibition is particularly relevant as small music venues in the UK face numerous challenges. Current discussions include a proposal for a £1 ticket levy on larger venue shows, aimed at financially supporting grassroots music venues. This initiative has garnered strong backing from music fans, with a recent survey indicating that 93% of participants support the plan.
Support from Artists and Recent Statistics
Artists such as Coldplay, Sam Fender, Enter Shikari, and Katy Perry have publicly endorsed the ticket levy, which has already facilitated reinvestment of over £580,000 into the grassroots music scene through 147 grants. This financial support is crucial, especially given that statistics reveal:
- 70.6% of independent UK acts have never toured.
- 84% of unsigned artists feel they cannot afford to tour.
- In 2024, nearly one grassroots venue closed every two weeks, with many existing in a state of emergency.
Government Interventions and Future Prospects
The UK government is also engaging in efforts to preserve live music, considering measures such as implementing a price cap on ticket resales and examining industry practices related to ‘dynamic pricing’. These discussions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of preserving the live music landscape.
Conclusion
As the V&A Museum prepares for the ‘Lost Music Venues’ exhibition, the call for contributions embodies a community effort to celebrate and remember the vibrant history of music venues in London. This initiative not only honors the past but also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the music industry today.