When Celebrity Culture Enters the Museum

What distinguishes a relic from a collectible? And when does a souvenir associated with a celebrity acquire a value that goes far beyond its material significance? These are some of the questions at the heart of Holy Pop!, the exhibition on view at Somerset House in London until 9 August 2026. The exhibition explores the relationship between the public and celebrities through contemporary artworks, memorabilia, collectibles and fan testimonies. More than an exhibition about popular culture, the project examines the forms of participation, belonging and identification that develop around musicians, actors, athletes and public figures. At the centre of the exhibition are objects. Stage costumes, photographs, musical instruments, autographs and souvenirs become tools for exploring the emotional connection between people and the figures they admire. A phenomenon that has intensified in recent decades through the rise of social media, creating a sense of constant proximity between celebrities and their audiences. The exhibition also looks at the collective dimension of fandom. Concerts, conventions, gatherings and public events become occasions for meeting and sharing experiences, helping to create communities united by common symbols, images and references. Through the lens of contemporary art, Holy Pop! offers a reflection on one of the most visible aspects of contemporary culture: the ways in which we construct myths, assign value to objects and transform certain public figures into points of reference capable of bringing together millions of people. Rather than focusing on individual celebrities, the exhibition examines the phenomenon as a whole, exploring how fame, collecting and the desire for belonging have taken on new forms in the digital age.