BMW Art Cars to make Asian debut in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, 4 September 2006 – BMW Group will present – for the first time in Asia – The BMW Art Car Tour, an art exhibition showcasing four original BMW Art Cars by world renowned pioneering artists Andy Warhol, Frank Stella, Roy Lichenstein and Ken Done.
BMW Malaysia’s Managing Director, Mr. Wolfgang Schlimme said, “For the first time, the BMW Art Cars are going on an Asia-Pacific tour that will begin here in Malaysia and see them going to the likes of Japan, Korea, Singapore, Australia, China, India and several other countries over the next two years.”
The idea of the BMW Art Car collection – was conceived by passionate French race car driver and art auctioneer, Herve Poulain, who sought to link his two passions in life – cars and art. The concept was set in motion in 1976 when Alexander Calder was commissioned to create, the first BMW Art Car for the Le-Mans 24-hour race. The enthusiastic reception of the rolling work of art was the spark of inspiration that led BMW to create the Art Car Collection, which now comprises of 15 Art Cars.
Here in Malaysia, BMW and art enthusiasts will have the privilege of experiencing four of the 15 rare BMW Art Car works by the well-known artists. The works featured are:
§ The 1976 painted BMW 3.0 CSL by abstract Expressionist and acclaimed artist of “Transitional Paintings” and “Black Paintings” – Frank Stella.
§ The 1977 painted BMW 320i Group 5 Racing version by the father of American pop art – Roy Lichtenstein.
§ The 1979 painted BMW M1 group 4 racing version by synonymous and eccentric Pop Art Culture artist – Andy Warhol.
§ The 1989 painted BMW M3 Group A Racing version by leading Australian painter and a top graphic designer – Ken Done.
Schlimme added that the Art Cars will be on display at the Petronas Art Gallery in Suria KLCC from September 14, 2006 to October 22, 2006. “Cultural Communications has been an essential activity for the BMW Group for over three decades and we are extremely proud that Malaysia will be the first country in the region to showcase this rich heritage.”
