Reverb: Immersive Art & Sound Exhibition Extended to March 2025
The immersive exhibition Reverb, a collaboration between 180 Studios and The Vinyl Factory, has been extended due to popular demand. Tickets are now available through March 2, 2025, offering a continued opportunity to experience the intersection of electronic music and contemporary art. The extension provides more time to explore the display’s 17 audiovisual installations, including new works by Es Devlin and Theaster Gates, and Devon Turnbull’s celebrated Listening Room.
A Multi-Sensory Exploration of Sound and Vision
Reverb isn’t simply a display of art *about* electronic music; it’s designed to be a fully immersive experience. The exhibition examines how electronic music has shaped visual culture, fashion, and social movements over decades. From the pioneering club designs of Ben Kelly to the large-scale installations of Es Devlin, the show presents a comprehensive gaze at the symbiotic relationship between sound and visual art. Visitors can journey through different eras and movements, from the early days of techno and house to contemporary digital art practices.
The exhibition features original artworks, installations, photography, and archival material, showcasing the evolution of electronic music culture. Featured artists include Carsten Nicolai, Hito Steyerl, Jeremy Deller, Julianknxx, Khalil Joseph, Stan Douglas, and the late Virgil Abloh, alongside Kelly, Devlin, and Gates. The Vinyl Factory’s own releases are also central to the experience, with 100 vinyl records created by artists and released by the label on display in a space designed by Ben Kelly. These include releases by artists as diverse as Nan Goldin, Arthur Jafa, and Massive Attack.
Devon Turnbull’s Listening Room: A Meditative Space
A standout element of Reverb is Hi-Fi Listening Room Dream No.1, created by and programmed with New York artist Devon Turnbull. This space offers a meditative environment to listen to vinyl, featuring an evolving program of unheard music, including exclusive test pressings and studio outtakes. The Listening Room has already hosted sessions with artists and selectors like Haseeb Iqbal and Charlie Dark, fostering a unique and intimate experience for attendees.
Turnbull, a sound engineer known for his meticulous approach to audio, has curated a space that prioritizes the quality of the listening experience. He’s built a reputation for creating immersive sonic environments, and this installation at 180 Studios is a testament to his dedication. You can learn more about Turnbull’s work and philosophy on The Vinyl Factory’s website.
Amplified: Live Performance and Direct-to-Disc Recording
Adding another layer to the exhibition is Amplified, a new work by Theaster Gates. During the day, it functions as a sonic installation, but at night, it transforms into a live performance space. These performances are recorded and pressed direct-to-disc on The Vinyl Factory Lathe, creating unique, limited-edition vinyl records.
The Vinyl Factory, in partnership with Alaska Alaska and Reference Point, has curated performances by musicians including Ragz Originale, Jamilah Barry, and Kokoroko. Entry to these intimate sessions is invite-only, but 180 Studios is offering opportunities to win tickets through their Instagram account.
Beyond the Established Names: UK Premieres and Emerging Artists
Reverb isn’t solely focused on established figures. The exhibition also features UK premieres of artworks by Kahlil Joseph, Stan Douglas, and Cecilia Bengolea. Installations by William Kentridge, Jenn Nkiru, Hito Steyerl, and Gabriel Moses further broaden the scope of the show. This commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists underscores The Vinyl Factory’s dedication to supporting innovative work at the intersection of music and visual art.
Es Devlin’s Screenshare, highlighted in a recent feature by Fact Magazine, is a particularly noteworthy installation. You can read more about Devlin’s work and its connection to the exhibition on Fact Magazine’s website.
Location and Details
REVERB is located at 180 Studios, 180 The Strand, London, WC2R 1EA. The exhibition is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 12pm to 6pm. It was closed between December 23, 2024, and January 8, 2025. Tickets are available for purchase on the 180 Studios website.
Looking Ahead: Continued Engagement and Limited-Edition Releases
With the extension through March 2, 2025, Reverb will continue to offer a dynamic and evolving experience for visitors. The ongoing Amplified performances and the rotating program within Devon Turnbull’s Listening Room ensure that there’s always something new to discover. The limited-edition direct-to-disc recordings created during the performances will undoubtedly become highly sought-after collectibles, further cementing the exhibition’s legacy. The Vinyl Factory’s commitment to documenting and celebrating the intersection of sound and vision makes Reverb a must-observe for anyone interested in contemporary art and electronic music.