V&A Enlists Four British Superfans as Advisors

The Victoria and Albert Museum has enlisted the help of four British Taylor Swift superfans to serve as advisers to the institution, following a significant response of over 1,000 applications. The museum is tapping into the deep knowledge and passion these fans have for the 14-time Grammy award-winning artist, who is currently on her Eras tour.

The selected Swifties are tasked with providing insights into the culture and craftsmanship behind handmade signs, friendship bracelets, and memorabilia associated with Swift. The four chosen candidates include Kelsey Barnes, 31, a journalist and unofficial “Taylor Swift historian,” Dr. Iona Murphy, 27, a literature professor with encyclopedic knowledge of the singer, India Meade, 28, who has been a fan since she was 14, and Molly Gilroy, 27, a conservation charity worker who has been blogging about Swift since 2013.

Kate Bailey, senior curator of theatre and performance at the V&A, led the interview process. “Being inundated with over a thousand applications from Swifties around the UK was incredibly humbling and a testament to Taylor Swift’s impact on popular culture,” she said. “The depth of knowledge and passion for her work displayed by the applicants was truly astounding, and as a result, narrowing it down to just four candidates was an arduous process. Each applicant brought unique perspectives and expertise.”

“We were thrilled to find individuals who could provide so much enthusiasm and their own insights into Swift’s artistry,” Bailey added.

Dr. Iona Murphy described the opportunity as beyond her “wildest dreams,” adding, “I still wake up in the morning full of excitement knowing that I get to talk about Taylor Swift to people who genuinely care. Working at the V&A has given me a real sense of connection to art, culture, and the community. It truly is a magical project to be a part of.”

Dresses, storyboards, and cowboy boots are among the personal items of Swift’s that will be showcased at the V&A in South Kensington. This display is part of a new exhibition slated for summer named “Taylor Swift: Songbook Trail,” opening on 27 July with free entry. The exhibition will feature 16 outfits worn by the singer.

Interestingly, Taylor Swift isn’t the only subject for which the museum has been recruiting advisers. The V&A has also appointed advisers for Lego, Pokémon cards, “gorpcore,” and Toby jugs. They are currently looking for advisers in areas like Crocs, drag, emojis, and tufting.

Source: Press Association