At the prestigious Frieze Los Angeles art fair, the automotive world witnessed a groundbreaking fusion of art and innovation with the unveiling of the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. This avant-garde masterpiece, a tribute to the iconic BMW Art Car by Esther Mahlangu, embodies the pinnacle of creativity and technological advancement in the automotive industry.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA made its grand debut at the opening of the Frieze Los Angeles art fair on February 29th, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing display of color-change technology and artistic brilliance. Crafted in collaboration with renowned South African artist Esther Mahlangu, this one-of-a-kind vehicle seamlessly integrates her distinctive Ndebele designs with cutting-edge innovation.
Named after Mahlangu’s first son, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is a testament to her pioneering spirit and artistic vision. With sections of electronically animated film adorning its exterior, this electric sedan serves as a dynamic canvas, bringing Mahlangu’s vibrant artwork to life in constantly evolving compositions. Each detail is meticulously crafted, with 1,349 sections of film individually controlled to recreate the intricate ornamentation of Mahlangu’s original designs.
Behind the scenes, BMW engineers pushed the boundaries of technology to realize Mahlangu’s vision. Partnering with E Ink, the company developed groundbreaking color-change technology capable of unprecedented precision transforming the vehicle’s surface. From laser cutting to electronic control design, every aspect of the manufacturing process was meticulously executed to ensure seamless integration of art and innovation.
The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA represents the latest evolution in color-change technology, surpassing previous iterations with its ability to display a multitude of colors and patterns. While currently a one-of-a-kind creation, advancements in production techniques offer glimpses of a future where such innovations could become more widely accessible.
Experience the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA firsthand at Frieze Los Angeles, where it will be on display until March 3, 2024. Take advantage of this opportunity to witness the future of automotive artistry in action.
