V&A: A Souvenir

by Gill Saunders

An informative guide to the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the world’s leading museum of art and design.

The book features the most spectacular holdings from the V&A archives and building, and explains how the Museum works to enrich people’s lives by promoting the practice of applied art and design, increasing our knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of the designed world.

Unlike a traditional ‘guide’, the book reflects what the V&A is about and for, and in doing so captures a slice of the designed world around us. V&A: A Souvenir is a desirable memento for visitors to the Museum as well as those wishing to understand more about the V&A’s world-class collections and design values.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Museums

328 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Andrew Ives · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the title suggests, 'A Souvenir' is seemingly intended to be just that - a reminder of one's visit, as opposed to an in-depth academic study on art and design. With that aim, this book fulfils the role perfectly. There is a vast range and variety of photos - well chosen, well taken and very nicely printed (although some do unwisely span the crack down the middle of the book). There isn't much text, and although it may be somewhat difficult to read being in white on silver, it is stylish and very well-written. The quirky stories about the V&A's history, being used as a canteen during WW2 and Henry Cole's dog are all interesting. Although there are plenty of quotations and references to the website, I would've preferred just a little more text. 3.75/5

[aarna · Rating 5 out of 5]

it was cute actually

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a souvenir book, so it was good in that it makes me want to go back to the V&A. I want to see the exhibits again and be more aware of the parts of the building and the architecture of it. I loved how the images on two facing pages, the editors picked two objects that complement each other.

[Anastasia · Rating 3 out of 5]

All of the Art and Items present in this Museum.