Duchess of Cambridge becomes first royal patron of V&A museum
The Duchess of Cambridge has become the first royal patron of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Kate, who is on maternity leave expecting her third child, formally began the role on Monday.
Kensington Palace said the patronage would further the Duchess's interest in the visual arts, photography and design.
Kate, who did a degree in the history of art, is already patron of the National Portrait Gallery and the Natural History Museum.
The V&A, which is a short distance from the Duchess's Kensington Palace home in west London, is the world's leading museum of art and design.
Kate is the first royal patron in the museum's 166-year history.
It was founded in 1852 and named after the Duke of Cambridge's great-great-great-great-grandparents Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Kate visited the V&A in June 2017 to officially open its new entrance, courtyard and exhibition gallery on Exhibition Road.
Tristram Hunt, director of the museum and former shadow education secretary, said he was looking forward to working with the Duchess.
"From its foundation by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, the V&A has enjoyed a proud history of royal support," Mr Hunt said.
We are honoured to announce that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge has agreed to become the V&A's first Royal Patron. The patronage reflects Her Royal Highness's continued personal interest in the visual arts, photography and design. pic.twitter.com/MvOcUo1lSy
-- V&A (@V_and_A) March 26, 2018
"We are delighted that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge has agreed to serve as Royal Patron of the museum.
"The Duchess's personal interest in photography, textiles and the visual arts, alongside her support for the role of art in supporting mental health and nurturing young people's creative talent, fits naturally with the collections and civic purpose of the V&A.
Experience the magical world of #WinniethePooh in our playful & multisensory exhibition - until 8 April! https://t.co/Mt4XmoxS3h V&A Members go free with up to 4 children under 18. Join now https://t.co/iBpH0foA3Bpic.twitter.com/5wkmZnH5lt
-- V&A (@V_and_A) March 25, 2018
"The trustees, staff and members of the V&A look forward to working with Her Royal Highness across our museums in South Kensington, Bethnal Green and Dundee."
The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry
Action for Children
The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club
The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families
East Anglia's Children's Hospices
The Art Room at Place2Be
The Lawn Tennis Association
The National Portrait Gallery, London
Nursing Now campaign
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Place2Be
SportsAid
The 1851 Trust
Natural History Museum
Victoria and Albert Museum
Honorary Air Commandant of The Air Cadets
The Duchess is due to give birth to her third child - a sibling for Prince George and Princess Charlotte - in April.
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