Over 40 years, BMW has facilitated the creation of 19 'Art Cars' - racetrack-worthy automobiles transformed by famous artists including Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and Olafur Eliasson. The company's Head of Cultural Engagement, Thomas Girst, discusses the project's history and legacy.
'The official presenting partner of India Art Fair, BMW is interested in much more than just cars, explains Thomas Girst, the brand’s Head of Cultural Engagement.
We spoke to Girst about rooting BMW’s work in culture – from its Art Journeys to the Art Car – which sees leading artists from around the world transform a vehicle. Each year, a different Art Car travels from the BMW Museum in Munich to be exhibited at India Art Fair. Incorporating art, design and technology, the Art Car has been created by iconic names including Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, David Hockney, and Olafur Eliasson.
When did BMW’s passion for art begin?
In the early 1970s: German artist Gerhard Richter gave BMW three large works to hang in the lobby at their headquarters in Munich and the incredible artist Alexander Calder painted the first BMW Art Car.' ... Keep reading on India Art Fair