Devialet, the renowned French audio specialist, partners with artists Yang Bao and Wa Liu to launch a limited edition of its flagship speaker, the Phantom I, in celebration of the Chinese Year of the Dragon. This collaboration fuses art, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge audio technology to create a unique audiovisual masterpiece.
Bao and Liu, known for their multidisciplinary approach, bring together diverse backgrounds in music, installation art, and anthropology. Their collaboration on the limited-edition Phantom I reflects a shared passion for exploring the physical representation of sound and pushing the boundaries of artistry.
The Phantom I design is hailed as a musical instrument with a distinct personality, transcending traditional speaker aesthetics. Bao highlights its visual fascination, acknowledging its appearance, weight, and speaker shape as captivating features.
Incorporating the symbolism of the dragon in both Eastern and Western cultures, the artists employ a pattern that harmonizes these cultural perspectives. The limited edition Phantom I integrates 22.5ct gold and polished red varnish, symbolizing the dragon’s nature, power, and serenity. The use of reflective materials ensures the speaker blends seamlessly into its surroundings, emphasizing its role as a sculptural piece.
This audio masterpiece represents a dichotomy between the immediacy of digital media and the enduring craftsmanship of analog synthesisers and acoustic pianos. Collaborating with Parisian gilding specialist Ateliers Gohard, known for its architectural restoration expertise, the Phantom I achieves unparalleled levels of artistry.
The intricate process involves the delicate application of gold leaf and red lacquer, presenting a visual feast that takes two weeks to complete. With just 150 units available, the collaboration between Devialet, Yang Bao, and Wa Liu showcases a harmonious blend of French savoir-faire and Chinese artistic flair.
Photo: Devialet
