A new exhibition celebrating awkward texting fails to open in London

A hilarious new exhibition by viral artist Babak Ganjei, opening in London and Glasgow this November, transforms Britain’s most embarrassing text blunders into art as part of a campaign by IRN-BRU and FUNKIN Cocktails.

Babak Ganjei.

From accidental DMs to autocorrect nightmares, texting isn’t always as smooth as we’d hope, and research reveals that 70% of Brits have experienced mortifying messaging moments. To honour these awkward blunders, The BEEP Show, a quirky art exhibition created by viral artist Babak Ganjei, is turning cringe-worthy texts into fine art. This humorous and relatable showcase celebrates the launch of the new FUNKIN IRN-BRU Vodka Martini, a canned cocktail combining the bold taste of IRN-BRU with a velvety martini twist. Hosted in Shoreditch and Glasgow, the exhibition invites visitors to laugh, reflect, and sip on something much smoother than their digital exchanges.

The galleries bring to life confessional text fails, with submissions from the public transformed into Ganjei’s signature witty word art. These not-so-smooth encounters—whether failed flirting attempts, group chat gaffes, or steamy DMs sent in error—highlight how technology can trip us up. Censored with the iconic “beep” from the campaign’s cheeky film, the art not only softens the sting of past embarrassment but celebrates the ability to laugh at life’s less-than-perfect moments. Babak Ganjei remarked, “Mistakes happen to us all. This exhibition is about owning those moments and turning them into something to smile about.”

The BEEP Show is open to the public on 29 and 30 November 2024.

Ashley Birch-Ruffell, Brand Director at FUNKIN Cocktails, said: “Our research shows that most of us have experienced a heavy dose of cringe while texting. This exhibition is about turning those moments into something we can smile at.” The BEEP Show is open to the public on 29th and 30th November at 2 Charlotte Road in London and the Social Hub in Glasgow, inviting visitors aged 18+ to celebrate texting fails with art, laughter, and cocktails.

Date: 29 - 30 November 2024. Location: Venue: 2 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch, EC2A 3DH.Price: Free. Visitors must be age 18+.