BMW Collaborates with Iconic Artist Lee Jianyong to Create a Masterpiece on Wheels
In a groundbreaking fusion of art and automotive design, BMW has teamed up with renowned 83-year-old Korean avant-garde artist, Lee Jianyong. This collaboration aims to transform the all-electric BMW i7, equipped with the M package, into a stunning visual experience and a moving work of art.
An Artistic Vision
Lee Jianyong is celebrated within the Korean contemporary art scene for his innovative use of the human body as a medium for performance art, as well as his striking abstract paintings. His series "Body Pictures" has garnered critical acclaim, reflecting his unique perspective on art and interaction. The BMW i7 serves as the perfect canvas for Lee’s vibrant artistic expression.
The striking design features a bright red background, with dynamic color blocks on the car’s front and rear fenders, side skirts, roof pillars, and trunk covers. The rest of the vehicle showcases intricate paintings of human faces, hearts, leaves, and abstract forms, offering a visually stimulating and asymmetrical layout that sets this vehicle apart.
Bridging Art and Technology
BMW emphasizes that this project captures the profound ways in which drivers connect with their vehicles. Lee Jianyong expresses his desire for art to act as a bridge between diverse entities, people, and perspectives, highlighting how art and technology can intertwine to foster new connections.
Upcoming Exhibition in Seoul
The colorful BMW i7 will be showcased at BMW’s exclusive lounge in Seoul from September 3 to September 6. The unveiling coincides with the presentation of 18 mini art cars, each representing unique artistic interpretations. On September 4, Lee Jianyong will create a new artwork on-site, further inspired by the transformation of the i7.
This exhibition is part of BMW’s broader celebration, commemorating the 50th anniversary of its art car project and the 30th anniversary of BMW South Korea’s establishment. The event will also feature an art fair in the Gagman district of Seoul, inviting art enthusiasts and the general public alike to experience this unique blend of creativity and automobile engineering.
A Testament to Innovation
This extraordinary collaboration exemplifies how traditional artistry can elevate modern technology. The BMW i7, renowned for its cutting-edge electric capabilities, now also embodies a rich cultural narrative through Lee Jianyong’s artistic vision. The project inspires a fresh dialogue on the synergy between artistry and innovation in the automotive realm.
Visual Inspirations
The striking transformation of the i7 showcases a diverse array of patterns and colors, each telling its own story. The vehicle becomes more than just a means of transport; it evolves into an expression of creativity and individuality, illustrating the power of artistic collaboration in contemporary society.
Conclusion: A Journey of Artistic Discovery
As the boundaries between art and technology continue to blur, this collaboration between BMW and Lee Jianyong stands as a testament to innovative thinking. The BMW i7 serves not just as a car, but as a mobile gallery, encouraging viewers to reconsider the intersections between art, culture, and technology.
This remarkable initiative invites everyone to witness the coming together of different worlds, urging us to embrace varied perspectives and embrace the transformative power of art in everyday life. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a car enthusiast, this event promises a unique experience that enriches the cultural landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting artistic venture unfolds, showcasing how creative expression can drive the future of design and engineering forward.
