Meaning: The quote by Sean Booth, a musician known for his work in the electronic music duo Autechre, reflects a sentiment shared by many artists and creators who push the boundaries of traditional forms of expression. In this quote, Booth expresses his astonishment at the audience's reaction to a particular creative endeavor. He notes that the audience may have been accustomed to receiving and manipulating images, but when confronted with a more intentionally designed piece of work, they were taken aback.

Booth's observation speaks to the idea that not all forms of artistic expression are immediately accessible or easily understood. In a world where people are inundated with images and media that can be quickly consumed and discarded, a more deliberate and designed approach to art may be unfamiliar and even jarring to some.

The quote also touches on the concept of artistic innovation and the challenge of breaking away from established norms and expectations. When artists create work that is "quite so 'designed'," it can disrupt the familiar patterns of consumption and interpretation, prompting reactions that range from confusion to admiration. The implication here is that the audience's preconceived notions and habits of engaging with art may not always align with the artist's intentions, leading to a disconnect in understanding.

In the context of electronic music, Autechre is known for its experimental and avant-garde approach to sound manipulation and composition. Their music often defies traditional structures and conventions, challenging listeners to engage with complex and intricate sonic landscapes. Booth's quote suggests that the duo's commitment to pushing the boundaries of music may have been met with resistance or misunderstanding from some listeners who were more accustomed to easily digestible, commercially-driven music.

The quote also underscores the importance of intentionality in artistic creation. By describing their work as "quite so 'designed'," Booth highlights the deliberate and thoughtful approach that went into their creative process. This emphasis on design and intention challenges the notion of art as a spontaneous or haphazard endeavor, instead emphasizing the value of careful planning and craftsmanship in the pursuit of artistic innovation.

In conclusion, Sean Booth's quote captures the tension between artistic innovation and audience reception, as well as the challenge of introducing unfamiliar or "designed" forms of expression to a world saturated with easily consumable media. It serves as a reminder of the importance of pushing creative boundaries and challenging established norms, even if it means risking a certain degree of misunderstanding or resistance from the audience. Booth's perspective sheds light on the complex dynamics between artists and their audiences, and the ongoing evolution of artistic expression in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

In a world where artistic expression is often reduced to easily consumable images and sound bites, the quote serves as a call to appreciate and engage with art that demands a deeper level of attention and reflection. It encourages audiences to embrace the challenge of encountering work that may initially "shoot over their heads," recognizing that the most innovative and thought-provoking art often requires a willingness to engage with unfamiliar and challenging ideas.