In an era where the boundaries between technology and art become increasingly blurred, the latest collaboration between renowned Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu and BMW Group presents a breathtaking fusion of innovation and tradition. The Esther Mahlangu × BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA not only marks a significant milestone in the realm of automotive design but also in the evolution of color-changing technology. Unveiled at BMW’s Lounge and set to captivate audiences at Frieze Los Angeles, this collaboration is a testament to the power of combining cultural heritage with futuristic vision.
Named in honor of Esther Mahlangu’s first son, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a moving canvas that showcases Mahlangu’s vibrant Ndebele patterns across its body, roof, and hood. What sets this automobile apart is its ability to constantly shift colors while maintaining the integrity of Mahlangu’s iconic designs. This feature not only exemplifies the advancement in automotive technology but also serves as a modern homage to Mahlangu’s 1991 BMW Art Car, now on display at the Iziko Museums of South Africa as part of her major retrospective in 2024.
The collaboration between Mahlangu and the BMW Group’s Open Innovations team has resulted in a vehicle that epitomizes the magic that occurs when traditional art meets cutting-edge technology. Stella Clarke, a Research Engineer with the Open Innovations team, recalls how Mahlangu’s art inspired the concept of dynamic color changes on a BMW, transforming what was once a mere idea into reality. The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA stands as a symbol of this journey, marrying the aesthetic beauty of Mahlangu’s art with the technological prowess of BMW.
This innovative project not only celebrates Esther Mahlangu’s contribution to the world of art but also highlights BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive design. The color-changing technology featured in the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a glimpse into the future, offering a preview of how cars might not just serve as modes of transportation but also as mediums for personal expression and cultural storytelling.
As the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA prepares to make its mark at Frieze Los Angeles, it invites viewers to not only admire the beauty of Esther Mahlangu’s art but to also contemplate the possibilities that lie at the intersection of creativity and technology. This collaboration between Mahlangu and BMW is a powerful reminder of how art can transcend traditional mediums, creating new platforms for cultural expression and innovation.
For those interested in witnessing the fusion of art and automotive technology firsthand, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA will be on display this weekend. It promises to be a highlight for art and car enthusiasts alike, offering a unique opportunity to experience the future of the BMW Art Car legacy. Stay tuned to @BMWGroupCulture for more insights into this groundbreaking collaboration, and make sure to visit it in person to fully appreciate the dynamic interplay of colors and patterns that define this extraordinary vehicle.
