ADE: Soundsystem & Collectives: A Raw Insight into the Dutch Underground Rave Culture

An honest look into the underground

In a time when electronic music is becoming more mainstream, this exhibition focuses on the unpolished side of rave culture. Soundsystems & Collectives highlights the collective experience of raves, showcasing the work of key collectives like Phantasm Audio Collective and PODD. Through analogue photos and videos by artists such as Justin Stokkerman and Camiel Mulders, visitors are immersed in raves' authentic and raw atmosphere.

The exhibition captures the energy of the underground scene, from outdoor raves in muddy fields to parties in industrial spaces. It provides a genuine insight into how raves are truly experienced, far removed from the glossy images often seen in the media.

Creative freedom

Dutch rave culture thrives on the DIY mentality of collectives like Phantasm Audio Collective, which operates in the tradition of the early rave movement. These collectives maintain full creative control over the music, visuals, and atmosphere by hosting raves in abandoned or unconventional locations, far from the commercial circuits. This freedom draws a growing community of ravers seeking an unfiltered experience outside the mainstream.