Art Dubai 2025: Andy Warhol's BMW M1 Art Car speeds into Dubai
The fusion of pop art and performance engineering is racing into the UAE as BMW Group Middle East announces an exclusive showcase of Andy Warhol's iconic BMW M1 Art Car at this year's edition of Art Dubai, running from April 16 to 20.
Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the legendary BMW Art Car Collection, the appearance of Warhol's one-of-a-kind M1 will mark its debut in Dubai, making it one of the standout cultural events of the year and a must-see for both art aficionados and automotive enthusiasts.
In just 28 minutes, with 6 kilograms of paint and bold, expressive brushstrokes, Warhol transformed a BMW M1 prototype into a rolling canvas of speed, motion, and modern art. Rather than relying on motifs from pop culture—as he often did in his portraits of Marilyn Monroe or Campbell's soup cans—Warhol opted for direct expression, allowing his gestures and paint to capture the raw dynamism of the car itself.
The car, designed by legendary automotive stylist Giorgio Giugiaro, went on to race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979, finishing 6th overall and 2nd in its class, driven by Manfred Winkelhock, Hervé Poulain, and Marcel Mignot. Poulain, also the visionary behind the BMW Art Car initiative, likened Warhol's painting process to 'a live dance performance.'
'Andy Warhol's BMW M1 Art Car is a true masterpiece that bridges the worlds of art and automotive excellence,' said Karim-Christian Haririan, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East. 'Bringing this car to Art Dubai underscores our commitment to creativity and cultural dialogue, both regionally and globally.'
The showcase is part of the BMW Art Car World Tour, a celebration of 50 years of the brand's unique collaboration with world-renowned artists. From Alexander Calder and Roy Lichtenstein to Esther Mahlangu and Jeff Koons, the Art Car Collection reflects the evolution of contemporary art and BMW's continued investment in cultural engagement.
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