By Monsi A. Serrano
Valuing the inclusive creative inputs from artists across the world, Rolls-Royce takes another impressive gambit as they thought of having their Phantom designed with a typical African touch.
And when it comes to African arts, there is one and only called the living legend in South Africa dubbed as South Africa’s Most Famous Artist, no less than Dr. Esther Mahlangu.
Dr. Mahlangu’s unparalleled style depicts and perpetuates the traditional Ndebele paintings known for bold large-scale contemporary paintings.
And with the intricate designs of the renowned African artist, Rolls-Royce deems it fitting to call this “The Mahlangu” Rolls-Royce Phantom.
With impressive interior space which spans the dash fascia that is enclosed by a sheet of glass, this unprecedented space is called the Gallery and provides the clients with the marque unique opportunity to commission and display, within their Phantom their very own highly personal works of art. This makes the Gallery the focal point for Phantom’s interior.
In the statement sent by César Habib, Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East and Africa, commented, “I am delighted to unveil ‘The Mahlangu Phantom’, a striking expression of contemporary African art. The Gallery is a unique environment for patrons of our marque to express personal and often highly creative artworks and we are indeed honored to showcase Dr. Mahlangu’s work in this Phantom’s serene interior.”
Dr. Esther Mahlangu is considered in South Africa as a national treasure. She has devoted her life to sharing her cultural heritage through vibrant geometric abstract paintings and murals inspired by the Ndebele ethnic group. The 84-year-old is one of Africa’s most respected living artists and her works can be found in many important museums, corporate and private collections around the world.
Known for her profound line “To paint is in my heart and in my blood”, Mahlangu truly shows her passion for art beyond ages.
With the goal of preserving her cultural heritage, Mahlangu founded an art school at her home in the Mpumalanga province where she mentors young artists in the traditional style of Ndebele design. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of ‘The Mahlangu Phantom’ will be donated to the school and will be used to support a retrospective exhibition that will narrate her fascinating life story and celebrate her invaluable contribution to contemporary African art.
Meanwhile, Craig Mark, Director of The Melrose Gallery, Dr. Mahlangu’s global representative said, “Dr. Mahlangu has been painting the bright, geometric, abstract artworks for which she has become so globally acclaimed since she was 10 years old. We are excited to have been appointed to curate this important Retrospective exhibition that will celebrate and honour Dr. Mahlangu and her important contribution to contemporary African art.”
To honor and celebrate the valuable contribution of Dr. Mahlangu, Rolls-Royce has produced an insightful film to showcase her work and rich cultural heritage.