BMW Brings Joy to Frieze LA with artist Esther Mahlangu For an artist's version of the classic BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA

Last week during the  Frieze Los Angeles art fair, the BMW Group unveiled a special collaboration with iconic South African artist Esther Mahlangu, presenting a unique project that seamlessly merges artistry with automotive innovation. The result was the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, a vehicle like no other, intricately crafted to reflect Mahlangu's distinct aesthetic language. As Stella Clarke, Research Engineer Open Innovations at the BMW Group, reflects, "Her art inspired me years ago, back when the concept of color change on a car was just an idea in my head. Now, being able to realize this idea and work with Esther Mahlangu is absolutely surreal."

Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound at the BMW Group, adds another layer of depth to the project with a bespoke sound experience that complements Mahlangu's visual narrative. By incorporating Mahlangu's voice, feather brush sounds, and studio ambiance, Vitale creates an immersive auditory landscape that mirrors the vibrancy of her artwork.With 1,349 individually controlled film sections developed in collaboration with E Ink, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA stands as a testament to the rapid advancements in color-change technology. From the BMW iX Flow to the i Vision Dee, each iteration represents a milestone in innovation, culminating in the latest phase of development embodied by the i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. In essence, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is more than just a vehicle; it is a testament to the enduring power of art and technology to inspire joy and creativity. As Clarke aptly notes, "The word joy is definitely something that she conveys not only in what she does, but in terms of everything that she exudes." From its mesmerizing color changes to its captivating soundscapes, this collaborative masterpiece is a celebration of joy, innovation, and the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.