A Portrait of Portable Audio: iFi audio are auctioning one-of-a-kind artwork featuring the GR2 

Hand-painted artwork inspired by Elisabeth Vigee Le Brun’s iconic self-portrait featuring the iDSD  GR2, is going under the hammer from 5th October

 

iFi audio is offering avid music lovers and art enthusiasts the chance to own a one-of-a-kind hand-painted piece of artwork inspired by Elisabeth Vigee Le Brun’s iconic self-portrait – but with a distinctive iFi twist. 

At High End Vienne earlier this year, iFi took an unconventional approach to its booth layout, transforming it into something resembling an art gallery. Classical paintings were given a contemporary, humorous makeover, with iFi products incorporated into the works of art. Amongst them was the portrait now heading to auction. 

Taking its visual inspiration from Vigée Le Brun’s iconic self-portrait, the artwork places the GR2 firmly in the spotlight. It’s a playful collision of centuries old art and modern innovation, placing iFi’s latest portable device as the unlikely subject of a neoclassical portrait. 

Rather than simply appearing as a product placement, the GR2 becomes part of the portrait itself - a visual representation of how portable audio has evolved into an increasingly important part of the modern listening experience. The result is an artwork that is as much about the culture of listening as it is about the product. 

For an audiophile, it could make an especially fitting addition to a listening room: a tongue-in-cheek nod to both the history of music and the technology used to experience it. 

The decision to auction the painting follows the attention it attracted when displayed at High End Vienna 2026, rather than returning to storage after its exhibition life, the painting has the chance to find a new home with someone who appreciates both the artistry behind the piece and the audio technology at its heart. 

The auction's 5th October launch also comes shortly after International Music Day on 1st October and World Audiophile Day on 2nd October, making the timing a natural celebration of music, listening and the wider audiophile community. 

Proceeds from the auction will be donated in support of Tides Out Charity, a free-to-use, not-for-profit music recording studio and creative space located inside the Warehouse Arts Centre in Southport, the home of iFi audio’s headquarters.  

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with iFi on the upcoming painting auction. As a community space with a focus on music and art, the paintings fit in perfectly with what we are doing here at The Warehouse Arts Centre” says Max Pritchard, Creative Development Manager at Tides Out. “We can't wait for future collaboration with iFi and are truly grateful for being selected for this project”.   

The auction will go live on iFi audio’s website on 5th October, there are no global or reginal restrictions, giving everyone the chance to make a charitable bid and be the potential winner to take home the unique piece of art. Bidding begins with a starting price of £165.