In an exclusive interview, Gus Casely-Hayford, the visionary director of V&A East, unveils the transformative power of museums for young people. Casely-Hayford, whose own journey began with a visit to the British Museum with his sister, Margaret, shares a powerful anecdote. Despite initially feeling unwelcome in museums, Margaret's determination to showcase diverse narratives inspired him. Now, as the director of V&A East, Casely-Hayford is dedicated to creating a space where 'young people can come in and have those transformative moments that change the trajectory of their lives.'
V&A East, a £1.1 billion cultural and education quarter, is set to open in April 2025, marking a significant milestone in London's cultural landscape. The project, part of the East Bank initiative, includes the V&A Storehouse, which has already exceeded visitor targets, and the V&A East Museum, a five-storey building designed by O'Donnell & Tuomey. The museum's mission is to make the V&A's world-class collections accessible to diverse audiences, particularly those who have historically been underserved by major cultural institutions.
Casely-Hayford's passion for the arts is evident as he discusses the museum's permanent collection, 'Why We Make,' which explores human creativity through various mediums. The collection features over 500 objects from 200 practitioners across 60 nations, including a piece by Bisila Noah and a pink dress by local designer Molly Goddard. Casely-Hayford emphasizes the museum's commitment to diversity, reflecting the intellectual DNA of national museums.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, with the first, 'The Music Is Black,' celebrating 125 years of Black British music history. Casely-Hayford highlights the museum's ethical stance, particularly regarding the return of looted artifacts and the importance of ethical funding. He expresses pride in the V&A's involvement in returning objects to Ghana, a crucial step in addressing the legacy of looted art.
Casely-Hayford's personal journey, influenced by his family's legacy in pan-African nationalism and his own achievements in presenting BBC series and authoring books, adds depth to his leadership. His emotional connection to his brother, Joe, a pioneering fashion designer, further underscores his dedication to the arts. V&A East, he believes, is the pinnacle of his career, striving to make museums universally accessible and inclusive, ensuring they tell the stories of all of us.
