Bristol’s Sound_Check at The PIT is turning up the volume on the city’s creative spirit — bringing together music, visual art, and a series of flavour-packed tasting events that invite audiences to experience Bristol’s cultural legacy through multiple senses.
Curated by IDLES’ bassist Adam Devonshire and acclaimed street artist Sickboy, Sound_Check is a sensory celebration of Bristol’s music history and visual identity.
The show features reimagined gig posters and iconic music photography from the likes of Inkie, Mina Hamada, Mr Jago and Lucy McLauchlan. Through these striking works, visitors can trace pivotal moments in the city’s musical evolution — from protest-fuelled punk to the ecstatic highs of rave culture.
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
Keep our city’s journalism independent. Become a supporter member today.
Sound_Check will be curated by IDLES’ bassist Adam Devonshire (pictured) and acclaimed street artist Sickboy
Now, the exhibition takes things a step further with three one-off tasting sessions that invite audiences to experience the artwork and music through a whole new lens — the glass.
Spirit of Bristol: Gin Gallery
Thursday 29 May 29| 7–9pm | £25
Take a flavour-led tour of the exhibition with four small-batch gins from local distiller Spirit of Bristol — including Hotwells Spice, Clifton Royale, London Dry, and Harbourside. Each gin is paired with a specific artwork, offering a guided journey through botanicals and brushstrokes, where juniper meets juxtaposition in the ultimate art-meets-drinks pairing.
For tickets, visit www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/the-pit-spirit-of-bristol-gin-gallery
Ciderbox: Cider x Sound
Wednesday June 4| 7–9pm | £25
Cider rebels Ciderbox serve up five characterful pours from independent producers, each matched to a track or gig featured in the exhibition. Expect raw, unfiltered stories of punk ethos and DIY spirit — all backed up by a bonus shot of Somerset Cider Brandy to close the night. A session for anyone who likes their culture with a bit of bite.
For tickets, visit www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/the-pit-ciderbox-ciders-x-sounds
KASK: Pour + Print
Thursday June 5 | 7–9pm | £35
Wine lovers are in for a treat as much-loved natural wine bar KASK hosts a one-night guided tasting of five carefully chosen wines — from sparkling to rosé. Each pour is paired with a featured artwork, exploring the way mood, tone and colour can transcend both canvas and palate. It’s a deep dive into the art of pairing — and a true celebration of sensory storytelling.
For tickets, visit www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/the-pit-kask-pour-print
Running until early June, Sound_Check is more than just an exhibition — it’s a love letter to Bristol’s sonic and visual past, seen through the eyes of some of its celebrated visual artists and photographers.
Proceeds from artwork sales will go toward Gig Buddies, a charity working to make live music more accessible for people with learning disabilities — adding an extra layer of meaning to an already rich cultural offering.
For more information, visit www.pitbristol.com
All photos: Plaster
Read next:
