THE V&A

Research Institute

Introducing the V&A Research Institute

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The V&A was the first national museum to establish a dedicated Research Department, and research continues to be a core activity of the Museum today. The V&A Research Institute plays a leading role in fostering interdisciplinary research collaborations and object-led, museum-based learning, across the fields of art, design and performance.

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Research projects

Research is deeply embedded in the V&A’s institutional culture, as we strive to promote knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of the designed world.

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Current project

Artist Fellowships – VARI / V&A East in collaboration with Bow Arts Trust

Artists Adam Moore and Laura Wilson are examining and responding to the histories and practices of making, manufacturing and materials in Newham. Based at Bow Arts’ studio in Royal Albert Wharf, they are investigating local ecologies and our relationship to nature within the urban environment.

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Current project

Early Career Fellowships in Cultural and Heritage Institutions

Generously supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), eight early career research fellows are undertaking research projects, each hosted by an Independent Research Organisation (IRO). The V&A is acting as the Cohort Coordination and Development team for this fellowship scheme.

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Current project

Hubs, Nodes and Networks: a new history of British digital art

This project funded by the Paul Mellon Centre, explores the relationships between digital art practitioners, communities, and institutions in Britain from 1960s to the present. It considers the V&A’s Computer Arts Society archive and collection as a central resource.

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Highlights

Recent and upcoming

Black Genius: Science, Race, and the Extraordinary Portrait of Francis Williams

On 16 October join historian and Visiting Research Fellow Fara Dabhiowala for the captivating story behind one of the V&A's most fascinating portraits.
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Our research journal

The V&A Research Journal is now available again – and we plan new issues in the forthcoming months
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'Unearthed: An Interview with the Archive' by Amina Jama

‘Unearthed’ is a poetry film by Amina Jama. It responds to the V&A’s archive showcasing stereotypical depictions of people of colour throughout time.

Opportunities

Find out how you can get involved with the V&A Research Institute — the first of its kind in the UK.

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