For more than 40 years, the BMW Group has engaged in an international cultural commitment that focuses on the preservation and advancement of art, architecture, jazz and classical music. In 1975, famed artists from nine countries on five continents helped create the BMW Art Car series, a collection that showcases the evolution of trends within both the art and automotive industries. Today, in celebration of four decades worth of Art Cars, the collection will be displayed online for all to enjoy.
In the past, BMW Art Cars have often appeared individually at various museums and institutions around the world. Until September 25, 2011, however, all 17 vehicles will be showcased together at the BMW Museum in Munich. Online visitors will be able to take a virtual video tour and experience historic racing footage and artist commentary as well.
The most recent Art Car was styled by celebrated sculptor Jeff Koons and added to the collection in 2010. For Koons, the project was a profound journey. “These racecars are like life, they are powerful and there is a lot of energy. You can participate with it, add to it and let yourself transcend with its energy.”
The Art Cars feature Pop Art of the 1970s, as well as modern 21st century concepts, and include artistic contributions from greats like Thomas Demand, Andy Warhol and Olafur Eliasson. Warhol once said of his BMW masterpiece, “I love that car. It has turned out better than any artwork.” Artist David Hockney was particularly inspired by the 850 CSi silhouette, saying, “The car has wonderful lines which I followed.”
Bill McAndrews, head of BMW Group Corporate Strategy and Communications, emphasizes the fact that the comprehensive BMW Art Car tour can be viewed anywhere and at anytime. See these 17 “works of art on wheels” at www.bmw-artcartour.com.
