Unveiling Techno Violet: A Journey Through KITH's BMW Masterpieces at Art Basel
The stage was set at one of Miami's celebrated architectural gems, the 1111 Lincoln Road, where fashion, art, and automotive brilliance converged during Art Basel week. This prestigious gathering, orchestrated by the KITH, BMW M, and BMW USA teams, showcased an extraordinary collaboration that artfully blends high fashion and automotive heritage. Under the visionary guidance of Ronnie Fieg, KITH unveiled two jaw-dropping vehicles: a bespoke BMW M1 cloaked in a striking Techno Violet and a BMW XM Concept also donned in a unique Frozen Techno Violet hue. This event marked the launch of Chapter III in Fieg's partnership with BMW, a continuation of his relentless quest to fuse KITH's bold branding with BMW's storied legacy.
The Journey of the BMW M1
Among the breathtaking setups, the restored M1 stood as the centerpiece, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and collectors alike. Acquired for an impressive $1 million, this car is a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. Fieg shared the painstaking process behind its restoration—from stripping off its original red paint to revealing the sophisticated Techno Violet finish, reminiscent of BMW’s iconic color palette from the 1990s. This M1 is not just any model; it is the very first of its kind, a rare piece of automotive art that required diligent effort from BMW Classic to source. Through their collaboration with Fieg, they transformed this classic into a stunning example of automotive craftsmanship, further solidifying its place in Fieg’s expansive collection of eighteen BMWs.
The Significance of the 47-Unit XM Concept
The spotlight also graced the BMW XM Concept, presenting an ultra-limited production run of just 47 units. While the XM dazzled onlookers with its carbon fiber seating and captivating purple accent lights, the production editions maintain the bold Frozen Techno Violet hue but with more refined details. The number 47 symbolizes an exciting historical moment for the M1, as it approaches its 47th anniversary next year, creating a compelling story behind this limited-edition release.
A Personal Connection to BMW
During an engaging panel discussion, Ronnie Fieg opened up about his deep-rooted affection for the BMW brand, citing familial ties that sparked which began with his grandfather's love for cars. His emotional connection to the brand ignites a fervent passion for creating authentic collaborations that resonate with fans and collectors alike. The search for the M1 was a labor of love, spanning several years. However, Fieg's ambitions extend far beyond just one car; he sees each collaboration as an opportunity to respect BMW's illustrious past while forging its future.
The Challenges Behind the Visionary Project
Bringing projects like the KITH BMW XM to fruition is no easy endeavor, as discussed by Tobias Weber, Head of Collaborations at BMW Group. A significant hurdle was the introduction of the exclusive Frozen Techno Violet paint, marking its debut on a BMW. The paint had to undergo rigorous testing to ensure adherence to safety regulations and performance standards, particularly regarding factors like reflections critical to automotive safety. Furthermore, the unique lighting design elements posed considerable challenges, as any adjustment requires extensive compliance checks to ensure they meet both legal and functional avenues.
Art Basel: A Convergence of Cultures
The illustrious Art Basel event transforms into a spectacle of luxury, showcasing not just art but significant automotive achievements. Set against the backdrop of Miami’s skyline from the seventh floor of the 1111 Lincoln Road parking structure, the venue offered panoramic views, amplifying the event's elegance and prestige. With both vehicles embodying the essence of thoughtful design, the careful KITH monogram embossing and M1's pristine restoration echoed the commitment to quality and artistry shared by both brands.
Fieg is not just pioneering a collection of rare BMWs; he is solidifying his legacy as a curator of the brand’s most treasured designs. For those lucky enough to be present at this momentous event, it blended the worlds of automotive design, luxury fashion, and artistic expression into an unforgettable celebration that left a lasting impression on all attendees. This milestone reinforces not just Fieg’s passion for BMW but also his role as one of the brand’s most devoted ambassadors, forever weaving together the threads of culture, fashion, and automotive excellence.