Kensington Palace has announced that the Duchess of Cambridge has become the first Royal Patron of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
The patronage reflects Her Royal Highness’s interest in the visual arts, photography and design and officially takes up the position today.
The Duchess’ acceptance of the role of Royal Patron follows her previous support for the museum in June 2017, when she joined V&A staff and architect Amanda Levete CBE, for the official unveiling of Exhibition Road Quarter.
Last year she was given a tour of the Exhibition Road Quarter’s new space and wowed by the first public porcelain courtyard that has 11,000 handmade tiles and cost a staggering £54.5 million.
The V&A has been linked to The Royal Family since its founding in 1852. However, the Duchess is the museum’s first Royal Patron.
The museum was the vision of Prince Albert, and Queen Victoria officially opened it in 1899.
Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A said: “From its foundation by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, the V&A has enjoyed a proud history of Royal support. We are delighted that HRH The Duchess of Cambridge has agreed to serve as Royal Patron of the Museum.
“The Duchess’s personal interest in photography, textiles and the visual arts, alongside her support for the role of art in supporting mental health and nurturing young people’s creative talent, fits naturally with the collections and civic purpose of the V&A. The Trustees, staff and members of the V&A look forward to working with Her Royal Highness across our museums in South Kensington, Bethnal Green and Dundee.”
The Duchess has a degree in history of art from St. Andrews University.
