If you're not a fan of The Beatles, then you best not visit artist Rutherford Chang's record store installation. The obsessive record store only stocks The White Album by the iconic Beatles band. How long does it take to amass such a vast collection you might ask? It's taken the artist seven whole years to build up this impressive collection of 699 first pressing copies of The Beatles 1968 classic album.
The record store installation 'We Buy White Albums' is currently on display at the Recess Gallery in New York. If you bring a copy of The White Album in, Chang will gladly take it off your hands -- but just remember, you can't actually buy anything in this store. The artist says he was drawn to this particular album because of its featureless cover design, and the fact that the covers show signs of their age and marks from the former owners through the years.
Single Album Record Stores
Rutherford Chang Opens a Record Store That Only Sells the White Album
Trend Themes
1. Record Store Installations - Creating immersive and experiential installations in record stores that focus on a specific album can engage customers and provide a unique shopping experience.
2. Obsessive Collecting - The growing trend of collecting rare and unique items, such as amassing a vast collection of 699 first pressing copies of a specific album, presents opportunities for niche markets and specialized collectors.
3. Artistic Expression Through Curation - Artists and creators can express their artistic vision by curating collections and installations that focus on a specific theme, album, or artist, allowing for new interpretations and engagement with their work.
Industry Implications
1. Art Galleries - Art galleries can explore the idea of showcasing record store installations as a novel and immersive way to engage visitors and bridge the gap between art and music.
2. Collectibles Market - The collectibles market can capitalize on the trend of obsessive collecting by catering to niche collectors who are passionate about acquiring rare and unique items related to specific albums or artists.
3. Music Industry - The music industry can collaborate with artists and creators to develop interactive and immersive experiences within record stores, allowing fans to connect with their favorite albums in a new and engaging way.