The story took us through the concept behind the idea of bringing the iconic Victoria and Albert Museum in London to Scotland, recognising the vast contribution this small country has made to design in the U.K. and the world. We saw the original rough sketch by the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, reminding us of the cliff stacks found along our coastline, and followed the progress of the building to the magnificent conclusion, like a great ship with its prow thrusting over the Tay. We saw how the grounds were prepared, and the stages of the building construction, ending in a virtual tour of the interior, a spacious and dynamic space to show and explore design and creativity in Scotland. Outside is a community garden, planted to have a positive impact on wellbeing.
Forget dusty old museums where you shuffle round looking at static exhibits - this will have many visiting exhibitions to fill the largest temporary exhibition space in the UK, as well as the permanent exhibition space showcasing Scottish design history. The museum has involved the community with its Schools Design Challenge, and the Living Room for the City project. The museum will be a hub of activities for both the local and the worldwide community, reflected in the many funders from Scottish businesses and individuals adding to the government's contributions.
The museum will be opening very soon, and we are all looking forward to visiting this unique building, it is truly something for Scotland to be proud of.
To see more about the museum visit their website at www.vandadundee.org which has so much more information than can be written here.
