BMW will spotlight Esther Mahlangu at Frieze London 2024, showcasing her new mural and celebrating her legacy as the first female artist to create a BMW Art Car. The event underscores her contributions to contemporary art and cultural dialogue.
From 9 to 13 October 2024, the Frieze London and Frieze Masters art fair will return to Regent’s Park, London. BMW, a long-term partner of Frieze since 2004, will honour the renowned Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu, who was the first woman to create a BMW Art Car back in 1991. In collaboration with BMW, the Serpentine will unveil a new mural by Mahlangu titled “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” in the garden at Serpentine North. Mahlangu designed the 12th BMW Art Car, based on the BMW 525i, establishing her as the first female and African artist in the series. Since its inception, notable artists such as Andy Warhol and Jeff Koons have contributed to this collection. Mahlangu’s work has paved the way for ongoing collaborations with BMW. Born in 1935 in South Africa, Mahlangu has pioneered Pan-African contemporary art for over 80 years. Starting her artistic journey at ten, she has mastered traditional Ndebele painting techniques. She utilises natural pigments and unconventional tools like chicken feathers to create her vibrant works. Additionally, Mahlangu has expanded her practice to use acrylics on canvas, enhancing her artistic range. This year is particularly significant for Mahlangu; alongside Frieze London, her retrospective exhibition “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting” opened in February 2024 at the Iziko Museums in South Africa, celebrating her impactful 50-year career. The exhibition includes her BMW Art Car, which has returned to South Africa after over three decades. Currently, her work is also featured in the 2024 Venice Biennale and the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA was showcased at Frieze L.A. in February, highlighting her artistic influence paired with BMW technology.
The relationship between BMW and contemporary artists dates back to 1975, when BMW began commissioning artists to transform their cars into works of art, culminating in the prestigious BMW Art Car collection. Esther Mahlangu’s involvement in this project marks a significant milestone in recognising women artists in the automotive art scene. Her unique Ndebele style not only adds diversity to the collection but also revitalises discussions about culture and identity within contemporary art. The upcoming Frieze London event provides a platform to celebrate both her artistic legacy and the intersection of art and technology demonstrated by BMW’s innovative colour-changing vehicles.
Esther Mahlangu’s recognition as BMW’s partner at Frieze London 2024 highlights her pioneering role in contemporary art. With significant milestones including her Art Car and global exhibitions, Mahlangu continues to influence and inspire. This partnership strengthens the narrative of cross-cultural collaboration and the importance of artistic expression in modern society.
Original Source: bimmerlife.com