David Bowie Is

David Bowie Is explores the career of David Bowie, a pioneering artist whose influence spanned nearly 50 years and earned him international acclaim. Published to accompany the blockbuster exhibition at London's Victoria and Albert Museum, this is the only book that has been granted access to Bowie's personal archive of performance costumes, ephemera, and original design artwork. It presents a new perspective on his creative work and collaborations.

The book chronicles Bowie's career beginnings in London, highlights the breakthroughs of Space Oddity and Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, and examines his impact on twentieth-century avant-garde art on a global scale.

Accompanying essays by V&A curators delve into Bowie's connection to London, his image, and his influence on the fashion world. These are complemented by Howard Goodall's insights into musicology, Camille Paglia's exploration of gender and decadence, and Jon Savage's analysis of Bowie's relationship with William Burroughs and his fans. Additionally, there is a discussion between Christopher Frayling, Philip Hoare, and Mark Kermode, conducted at the V&A, concerning Bowie's cultural impact.

The book features over 300 images, including personal and performance photographs, costumes, and lyric sheets, offering a unique insight into Bowie's world.