The world of high-end audio has taken over UK art and fashion, transforming galleries into immersive listening spaces where visitors are surrounded by cutting-edge sound systems. Peter Doig's recent exhibition at the Serpentine Gallery in London is a prime example of this trend. The Scottish artist used not one but two vintage sound systems – one from the 1920s and 30s, and his own Klangfilm Euronor speakers – to create an immersive experience that blurs the lines between art and music.
This phenomenon isn't limited to galleries alone. Fashion houses such as Valentino have also taken note of the trend, incorporating high-end audio systems into their designs. Even Japanese-style listening bars are popping up across the UK, offering a unique blend of sound, style, and culture. The fashion world has taken notice, with designers like Virgil Abloh's protégé Devon Turnbull creating immersive listening spaces as part of his design aesthetic.
But what drives this fascination with high-end audio? According to Suze Webb, a culture critic who wrote extensively on the trend, speakers have become status symbols. "Sound systems and quality hi-fi have over the last few years become cool and aspirational," she says. Another factor is the growing diversity of creative teams, which has led to a renewed appreciation for sound system culture among Black and Caribbean communities.
While some critics argue that the original radical roots of sound systems have been lost in the process, Prof Julian Henriques from Goldsmiths University of London sees this trend as a positive development. "I'd rather it was happening than not happening," he says. The popularity of sound systems is opening up new possibilities for art, fashion, and music, creating unique experiences that blur the boundaries between genres.
As the world of high-end audio continues to take over UK art and fashion, one thing is clear: sound has become a powerful tool in the creative industry, capable of transporting us to new worlds and redefining our understanding of art itself.
This phenomenon isn't limited to galleries alone. Fashion houses such as Valentino have also taken note of the trend, incorporating high-end audio systems into their designs. Even Japanese-style listening bars are popping up across the UK, offering a unique blend of sound, style, and culture. The fashion world has taken notice, with designers like Virgil Abloh's protégé Devon Turnbull creating immersive listening spaces as part of his design aesthetic.
But what drives this fascination with high-end audio? According to Suze Webb, a culture critic who wrote extensively on the trend, speakers have become status symbols. "Sound systems and quality hi-fi have over the last few years become cool and aspirational," she says. Another factor is the growing diversity of creative teams, which has led to a renewed appreciation for sound system culture among Black and Caribbean communities.
While some critics argue that the original radical roots of sound systems have been lost in the process, Prof Julian Henriques from Goldsmiths University of London sees this trend as a positive development. "I'd rather it was happening than not happening," he says. The popularity of sound systems is opening up new possibilities for art, fashion, and music, creating unique experiences that blur the boundaries between genres.
As the world of high-end audio continues to take over UK art and fashion, one thing is clear: sound has become a powerful tool in the creative industry, capable of transporting us to new worlds and redefining our understanding of art itself.
sound systems are literally taking over everything from galleries to fashion shows to listening bars... it's like, can you imagine experiencing an exhibition by peter doig with his own custom speakers? 
the way they're incorporating high-end audio into their designs is giving me LIFE 
and i'm so glad that designers like devon Turnbull are embracing this trend. i mean, who says sound systems can't be art?! 
plus it's amazing to see how this trend is bringing people together across different communities... the fact that it's opening up new possibilities for music, fashion, and art is just genius 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to experience art and music in a whole new way? The idea that sound systems are becoming status symbols is kinda interesting too. Like, if people can afford high-end audio, they must be pretty successful or something 
. And yeah, I guess it's great that creative teams from different backgrounds are getting involved - more diverse perspectives are always a good thing.
. The fact that it's creating new possibilities for art, fashion, and music is definitely a plus. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good listening bar? 
Sound systems are just another status symbol now... like how having a Rolex or a fancy car was once cool. It's not about the art anymore, it's all about having a sick sound system in your gallery or fashion show 
. And what's with the obsession over vintage speakers? Can't people appreciate art for its own sake without needing to listen to it? I mean, I've been listening to the same indie bands since 2005 and I'm still here... 
!
] Sound systems as status symbols? Who needs the latest handbag when you can upgrade your speakers?
And isn't Suze Webb right that speakers have become status symbols? That kinda defeats the whole purpose of art and music being for everyone, not just those who can afford it 
Just... maybe we need to find a way to make high-end audio more inclusive, you know? Like, what about affordable alternatives or DIY speakers for everyone? 
And I gotta say, it's awesome that designers like Devon Turnbull are taking inspiration from this trend - his listening spaces sound 
I think what's driving this fascination with high-end audio is the desire for a unique experience 
Not just about having good sound quality, but about creating an atmosphere and vibe 
And it's also interesting to see how different communities like Black and Caribbean are contributing to this trend - it's all about celebrating sound culture and creativity 