Yesterday at the Serpentine Galleries in London, Rolls-Royce announced a new vision for its Muse art program, anchored by two biennial projects: “Dream Commission” and the “Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge.” Moderated by András Szántó, a conversational panel with Hans Ulrich Obrist, Isaac Julien, and Jenna Sutela discussed the new path of Muse and the future of digital art.
“Since its inception five years ago, the Rolls-Royce Art Programme has brought many new artworks to fruition around the world,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce.
András Szántó, Isaac Julien, Jenna Sutela and Hans Ulrich Obrist, at the launch of Muse, the new vision for the Rolls-Royce Art Programme. Photo by Adam Warner. Courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
Since 2014, Muse has engaged art patrons and the public with commissions involving contemporary art figures, bespoke programs, publications, and more. With Muse, the community gains unique access by Rolls-Royce and gets a glimpse into the creative ways of an artist. Works will be presented in mid-2020 and selected by a jury of artists, museum directors, and curators. Later this year, the three “Spirit of Ecstasy” artists will be revealed, with commissions presented next year. In 2021, the “Dream Commission” will be unveiled.
Presented in partnership with the Fondation Beyeler in Basel and the Serpentine Galleries in London, “Dream Commission” supports moving image works by emerging and mid-career artists from around the world. Works in experimental film, video, animation, immersive and participatory installations, and AR and VR will be seen.
The launch of Muse, the new vision for the Rolls-Royce Art Programme. Photo by Adam Warner. Courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
“Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge” invites global creatives to reimagine the icon of the Rolls-Royce—the sculptural figurine adorning each motor car for over a century. After visiting the Rolls-Royce home in Goodwood, England and meeting master craftspeople from the brand, the artists will create a figure from a material of their choice.
“As we look to the future, Muse will enable us to continue this legacy with a vision to expand the horizon of moving image and ignite a dialogue with some of the most exciting creative visionaries of our time. In doing so, we will inspire great works that leave a lasting mark on our culture,” continued Müller-Ötvös.
The launch of Muse, the new vision for the Rolls-Royce Art Programme. Photo by Adam Warner. Courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
