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The Rolls-Royce Art Programme counts a diverse roster of artists among its alumni, including Angela Bulloch, Ugo Rondinone and Isaac Julien.
Now, the latest creative luminary to be called upon by the British motoring marque is Belgian designer Charles Kaisin, who enters the fold with an intricate installation for Rolls-Royce’s London showroom in Berkeley Square.
The artwork – due to be unveiled tomorrow – will be suspended from the ceiling and comprises more than 2,500 miniature origami pieces. Kaisin graduated from the Royal College of Arts in 2001 but it was his spell at Kyoto University of Arts that kindled his interest in the Japanese art of origami.
Each individual piece has been folded into the shape of the Spirit of Ecstasy, and once pieced together will recall Rolls-Royce’s iconic bonnet ornament on a larger scale. Some 500 hours were needed to craft and assemble the delicate artwork, which is made from silver paper that will reflect light back into the space.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Kaisin will extend his creative reach beyond the Rolls-Royce showroom for a surrealist dinner celebrating the new commission – his first in London following similar concept events across the world. The designer has masterminded the entire multi-sensory concept, from costumes through to music and table settings.
Opera singers and a pianist are just some of the theatrics that lie in store for guests, who will enjoy a five-course meal concocted by French Michelin-starred chef David Martin. Each course is served by performers wearing uniforms specially made to complement the dishes; and guests will receive their very own piece of Kaisin origami to remember the evening by.
The artwork is suspended from the ceiling and comprises more than 2,500 miniature origami pieces
To celebrate the commission, Kaisin masterminded a multi-sensory fantastical dinner complete with performances and a surrealist invitation
Drawing of the origami components that comprise the sculpture
Each course will be served by performers wearing uniforms specially made to complement the dishes
Sketch of one of Kaisin's costumes
A sketch of one of the costumes that performers will be donning for the event
Kaisin has previously used origami in his work for Ornis, installed in the lobby of the Théâtre de Liège in Belgium earlier this month.
INFORMATION
The installation is on view from 28 September – 16 October. For more information, visit the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars website
ADDRESS
Rolls-Royce
15 Berkeley Square
London, W1J 6EG