In a stunning revelation from the upcoming V&A East Storehouse exhibition, it's been unveiled that David Bowie's final artistic endeavor before his passing in 2016 was an enthralling 18th-century musical titled "The Spectator." This mesmerizing project sheds light on the legendary artist's profound creative aspirations.

Drawing inspiration from a daily newspaper that circulated between 1711 and 1712, which chronicled London's societal norms, Bowie envisioned a rich tapestry of characters. His notes reveal that he pondered incorporating Jack Sheppard, the infamous petty thief, alongside the unscrupulous vigilante Jonathan Wild, who orchestrated Sheppard's arrest and execution. Bowie's curiosity also extended to the notorious Mohocks, a gang of fashionable young men whose drunken debauchery often led to violent escapades in the streets.

As the lead curator Madeleine Haddon shared with the BBC, Bowie's detailed notes reflect his deep contemplation on the role of artists during this vibrant epoch, questioning how they crafted satirical commentaries on society. This exploration into the evolution of art and satire marked a fascinating aspect of his creative process.

The BBC gained exclusive access to Bowie's personal materials for "The Spectator," which included a dedicated notebook and an array of sticky notes—insightful snippets left in his New York office, a space accessible only to him and his personal assistant.

Bowie's passion for theatre resonated throughout his life; he openly admired the works of singer-songwriter and actor Anthony Newley and honed his theatrical skills under famed mentor Lindsay Kemp. In 2002, he expressed his burning desire to write for the stage, aiming to reach a broad audience with his artistic contributions.

The forthcoming David Bowie Centre, opening on September 13 at the V&A East Storehouse in Hackney Wick, will offer fans a unique glimpse into his creative process. Visitors will have the chance to view Bowie's treasured notes for "The Spectator" and the desk where this innovative work came to life. The center will host 200 items on permanent display and will allow fans to request access to any of the archival gems from his impressive collection of 90,000 pieces.

This new establishment builds upon the success of the "David Bowie Is" exhibition at the V&A in 2013, which set records as the museum's most visited show. With his final completed work, the hauntingly beautiful album "Blackstar," released just two days before his death, Bowie's artistic legacy continues to captivate and inspire.