Princess Kate Middleton has always had a soft spot for the arts, and her latest royal outing was an inspiring nod to her love for creativity. On June 10, the Princess of Wales made her way to East London for a visit to the V&A East Storehouse, part of the renowned Victoria and Albert Museum. This visit was not only a rare appearance after her half-term break with her kids but also a clear indication of her ongoing commitment to art and culture.

A closer look at the V&A East Storehouse

During her visit to the V&A East Storehouse, Kate Middleton had the opportunity to explore behind the scenes. The storehouse is a treasure trove that preserves over 500,000 objects, including fashion, film, design and performance pieces. The museum has made significant strides in making its collection more accessible by removing glass barriers, allowing visitors to get up close to these historic works.

Kate seemed right at home, observing the various processes that go into collecting, conserving and displaying these masterpieces. Her visit underscored her longstanding dedication to the arts, a passion she nurtured during her time studying Art History at St. Andrews University, where she met her future husband, Prince William.

Championing art for all ages

Kate’s love for art extends beyond her personal interests. She’s also a strong advocate for making art accessible to everyone. In 2018, the Princess of Wales became the patron of the Victoria and Albert Museum. 

In 2023, she helped open the Young V&A, a museum designed for children aged 0 to 14, featuring interactive galleries that focus on Play, Imagine and Design. Her involvement with the museum has always been personal, and her enthusiasm shines through, especially when interacting with young visitors.

“I was brilliant with the children,” said Tristram Hunt, the V&A director, as he recalled her interaction with schoolchildren at the Young V&A opening. The Princess made an immediate connection, guiding them through the experience with her warmth and encouragement.

The Upcoming Royal Events

After her inspiring engagement with the V&A East Storehouse, Kate will soon join the royal family for one of the most anticipated events of the year, Trooping the Colour. This grand military parade, which celebrates King Charles’ birthday, will take place on June 14.

Prince William will ride horseback as the honorary colonel of the Welsh Guards, while Kate will travel in a carriage with their children. The event will wrap up with a Royal Air Force flypast, observed from the iconic Buckingham Palace balcony.

FAQs

1. What is the V&A East Storehouse?

The V&A East Storehouse is a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

2. What is Kate’s connection to the V&A Museum?

Kate has been the patron of the Victoria and Albert Museum since 2018 and has been a long-time advocate for art, having studied Art History at St. Andrews University.

3. What will Kate be doing at Trooping the Colour?

Kate will join the rest of the royal family at Trooping the Colour on June 14, where she will travel in a carriage with her children, while Prince William will ride horseback.