- Muse, the Rolls-Royce Arts Programme presents the first exhibition of Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge artworks in Abu Dhabi
- Three artists, selected by an expert jury, have created textile artworks inspired by Rolls-Royce and the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine
- Exhibition opening joined by Ghizlane Sahli, one of the three commissioned artists
- Works by Bi Rongrong, Ghizlane Sahli and Scarlett Yang are on show in Abu Dhabi at the Cultural Foundation from 17 to 19 March 2024.
“Art has an extraordinary power to challenge, inform and inspire. These amazing works show how three talented artists working in the same medium can each interpret a single source of inspiration – our Spirit of Ecstasy – in an entirely unique and captivating way. We’re delighted to see these magnificent original pieces exhibited in Abu Dhabi: many of our clients here are noted connoisseurs of fine art, who appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship, innovation and technology that make every Rolls-Royce motor car a work of art in its own right.”
César Habib, Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East & Africa:
Muse, the Rolls-Royce Arts Programme celebrates the Abu Dhabi debut of three magnificent artworks, created by the winners of the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge. Unique pieces by Bi Rongrong, Ghizlane Sahli and Scarlett Yang are being exhibited at the Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi, from 17 to 19 March 2024. The private exhibition opening was attended by one of the three commissioned artists, Ghizlane Sahli, who personally presented her artwork to select patrons of the brand.
The Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge celebrates endless creativity within the world of materials and craftsmanship. The three artists, selected by an international expert jury and commissioned by the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge, were invited to create unique works inspired by Rolls-Royce and the Spirit of Ecstasy – the beautiful figurine that has adorned the radiator grilles of Rolls-Royce motor cars since 1911.
Artists were challenged to create their own interpretations of the Rolls-Royce iconic symbol using the medium of textiles, echoing Rolls-Royce’s own exploration of textile application in design. The artworks showcase three very different creative directions: from an immersive installation that combines LED animations with traditional Chinese crochet techniques; or a delicate sculpture made using algae photosynthetic organisms; to a complex piece created with salvaged materials, covered in white silk and gold thread.
The artists were chosen by an expert Jury, which included Yoon Ahn, Creative Director of AMBUSH🄬 and Director of Jewellery at Dior Men, Tim Marlow, Chief Executive and Director at the Design Museum, London, Sumayya Vally, Founder and Principal at Counterspace Studio, Johannesburg and Anders Warming, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
