For anyone who’s ever left an exhibition feeling sad that it was over, the newly opened V&A East Museum have made it their mission to mitigate this feeling: their new gift shop continues the exhibition experience. Designed in collaboration with the V&A East Youth Collective and Liverpool-based Studio Mutt, this new space is bold, artful and full of unique pieces. 

Housing pop-ups, seasonal ranges and exclusive items by East London makers, the V&A East Museum Shop is designed to be a destination. Alongside the main store, the V&A East Museum have also introduced a stand-alone shop to highlight the very best of its exhibits. Currently, the shop features all things Black British music in honour of the museum’s The Music is Black: A British Story exhibition, which opened on Saturday 18 April. This immersive sound exhibition traverses over 125 years of history and is a must-see for music lovers. 

Front and centre of the shop is the glossy, extensive The Music is Black exhibition book, full of exclusive interviews and deep dives into different genres. And to accompany it, a collection of theory, history and autobiographies which explore the role of music in Black British life, such as Heart of The Race: Black Women’s Lives in Britain and Grime: Documenting the Scene’s Rise and Reign. 

In true spirit of the exhibition, Jumbo Records have curated a record store concession to round out the in-store experience. As the oldest indie record store in Leeds, Jumbo Records have played an essential part in writing Black British musical history, focusing on soul and reggae from the store’s beginning – now the biggest in the city. 

A unique offering of clothing pieces inspired by the exhibiton encourage you to express your love of music through style. There’s a variety of t-shirts that are anything but boring, including one featuring Adam Friedman’s iconic 1980s club photography. Designer Nicholas Daley’s jumpers and t-shirts incorporate bold illustrations inspired by his Jamaican and Scottish heritage.  

Tote bag lovers, take note! Accessories have certainly not been an afterthought. The shop features two exclusive tote bag designs commemorating the exhibition – one for lovers of bold colour and one for those who like something more understated. Lolly and Kiks’ colourful Wax handmade bags and headbands also round out the selection. Additionally, indie designer Hoops and Chains’ genre-inspired jewellery adds the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.

If you’re looking to take a piece of the exhibition home or buy a loved one a gift, then there’s a variety of artful, playful options. Eye-catching prints of iconic photographs by Jennie Baptiste, Tim Bret-Day, Adam Friedman, Tam Joseph, Dave Swindells and Chris Steele-Perkins are available alongside a variety of pocket music-making devices. A delicious range of flavourful snacks and rums by Riddim and Duppy Share are also sure to delight any recipient.

The new V&A East Museum Shop is a fresh, intentional take on the classic gift shop – made by and for the community. Whether you’re catching an exhibition or simply fancy a browse, this new, exquisitely designed space is certainly one not to miss. 

The Music is Black: A British Story runs at the V&A East Museum until Sunday 3 January.