Latest news with #BMWArtCarCollection
Khaleej Times
07-04-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
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.
The National
03-04-2025
- Automotive
- The National
Andy Warhol's painted BMW M1 to make first regional appearance at Art Dubai
In May 1979, Andy Warhol travelled to Germany on a special assignment. The US artist was invited by BMW to take part in their Art Car series. Warhol would paint the fourth car in the collection, a prototype BMW M1. Six kilograms of paint and 28 minutes later, the prototype was transformed into a priceless artwork, with Warhol's signature vibrancy. That car is now heading to Dubai. The BMW M1 Art Car will be a highlight at Art Dubai, which will take place at Madinat Jumeirah from April 16 to 20. The display is organised by BMW Group Middle East. It will coincide BMW Art Car Collection's 50th anniversary. The initiative began in 1975, with US sculptor Alexander Calder's design of the BMW 3.0 CSL. The collection is continuing and now features 20 cars. Some of the most famous artists of the past half a century have taken part in the project, including Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney and Jenny Holzer. Most recently, Julie Mehretu put her mark on a BMW M Hybrid V8 in 2024. Warhol's 1979 M1, however, has endured as one of the collection's most striking works. 'I have tried to give a vivid depiction of speed,' Warhol said in 1979. 'If a car is really fast, all the contours and colours will become blurred.' The car's arrival in Dubai is its first visit to the region, part of a world tour of BMW Art Cars. 'The BMW Art Car collection embodies our commitment to creativity, innovation, and cultural expression,' Karim-Christian Haririan, managing director of BMW Group Middle East, said. 'Andy Warhol's BMW M1 Art Car is a true masterpiece that bridges the worlds of art and automotive excellence, and we are thrilled to bring this iconic work to Art Dubai 2025. This moment not only celebrates 50 years of BMW Art Cars but also highlights our ongoing support for the arts and our role in shaping creative conversations worldwide.' BMW Group Middle East will also be hosting a talk at Art Dubai. The session will examine the car industry's intersection with art and design. Speakers will include Hans Ulrich Obrist, artistic director of London's Serpentine Galleries; Stephanie Rosenthal, director of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi; Azu Nwagbogu, founder and director of the African Artists' Foundation; and Thomas Girst, head of cultural engagement at the BMW Group.
