Rolls-Royce spotlights century of artistic collaborations and coachbuilt masterpieces
From the Spirit of Ecstasy to the Phantom Gallery, Rolls-Royce has woven art into its identity for over a century.
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What Happened
Rolls-Royce has long been associated with prominent artists and patrons. The marque's connection began with Charles Sykes, who created the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot. Later, artists like Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol owned Rolls-Royce models, and the brand continues to collaborate with contemporary artists for bespoke commissions.
The Phantom Gallery, introduced with Phantom VIII, transforms the dashboard into a curated art space. Clients collaborate with artists and Rolls-Royce artisans to create unique works, making each Phantom a mobile exhibition.
“Dalí turned the whole event into theatre. Andy was petrified.”
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Salvador Dalí filled a borrowed Phantom with cauliflowers for a 1955 Sorbonne lecture.
Why this matters
This story illustrates how Rolls-Royce positions its cars as art, attracting artists and collectors, blending luxury craftsmanship with creative expression.
Terms in This Story
- Spirit of Ecstasy
- The iconic hood ornament on Rolls-Royce cars, depicting a woman leaning forward, designed by Charles Sykes.
- Phantom Gallery
- A glass-enclosed fascia on the dashboard of Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII, designed to display commissioned artworks.
- Bespoke
- Custom-made or personalized, referring to Rolls-Royce's tailored commissions for clients.
- Coachbuilder
- A company that designs and builds custom car bodies on a chassis provided by the manufacturer.
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