Kate Middleton Acted as a Museum Curator, and Princess Charlotte May Have Inspired One of Her Exhibit Picks

Kate Middleton Takes on Role of Museum Curator with Inspiration from Princess Charlotte

Kate Middleton has added a new title to her royal duties as she recently curated a selection of artifacts at the V&A East Storehouse in London. The Princess of Wales, known for her keen interest in art history, carefully selected objects for a mini display titled Makers and Creators during her visit to the museum in June. This unique display, part of the free self-guided experience, will be available for viewing until early 2026.

With her background in art history from the University of St. Andrews, where she met and fell in love with Prince William, Princess Kate collaborated with the museum’s curatorial team to curate objects from the V&A’s extensive collections. The V&A describes the display as a combination of various objects that aim to explore social and cultural experiences, showcasing how individual pieces can contribute to a broader tapestry of life.

Among the standout pieces in Kate’s display is the costume worn by Diana Vere in The Royal Ballet’s production of The Sleeping Beauty back in 1960. This particular choice may have been inspired by Princess Charlotte’s love for dance, as the young princess has been known to enjoy ballet performances with her mother. Additionally, Princess Kate included a watercolor by Beatrix Potter, a childhood photograph album belonging to her father, and a hand-quilted bedcover from Wales dating back to the 19th century.

During her visit to the V&A East Storehouse, Princess Kate also showed a keen interest in textiles, particularly admiring the work of William Morris and his assistant J.H. Dearle. The new facility offers visitors a glimpse into a diverse collection of objects from various creative disciplines such as fashion, theater, and sculpture. Kate had the opportunity to witness how objects are collected, preserved, and displayed, highlighting the importance of material culture in our society.

Museum director Tristram Hunt shared his observations of Kate’s visit, noting her passion and knowledge of material culture, as well as her enthusiasm for photography. Kate’s genuine interest in creativity and design was evident throughout the tour, and Hunt praised her energy and focus during the visit. As the V&A Royal Patron, Princess Kate has been actively involved in supporting the museum’s initiatives, including the opening of the Young V&A geared towards children aged 0 to 14.

In 2018, Kate Middleton became the patron of the Victoria and Albert Museum, further cementing her commitment to the arts and cultural heritage. Her involvement in curating the mini display at V&A East Storehouse reflects her ongoing dedication to promoting creativity and education. As Princess Kate continues to engage with various cultural institutions, her passion for the arts serves as an inspiration to many.

The collaboration between Kate Middleton and the V&A East Storehouse exemplifies the intersection of art, history, and royal influence, underscoring the importance of preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage. Through her role as a museum curator, Princess Kate not only honours the legacy of iconic artworks and artifacts but also fosters a deeper appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship in society.