The New BMW 7 Series Meets Art Enthusiasts at Contemporary Istanbul with A.A.Murakami’s “SYMBIOSIS” Installation.

Istanbul/Munich. Created by A.A.Murakami with inspiration drawn from BMW’s Neue Klasse vision, the “SYMBIOSIS” installation is showcased alongside the new BMW 7 Series at the 21st edition of Contemporary Istanbul. Following its appearance at Art Basel, “SYMBIOSIS” – signed by the Tokyo- and London-based artist duo Azusa Murakami (JP) and Alexander Groves (UK) – arrives at Tersane Istanbul during Contemporary Istanbul with a VIP Preview on 23 September and Public Days from 24 to 27 September.

A.A.Murakami’s “Ephemeral Tech” approach, which merges technology with physical and natural processes, intersects with BMW’s Neue Klasse vision of driving centered on interaction between human and machine. SYMBIOSIS takes its name from the biological concept describing two distinct organisms living together. In the installation, sculptural, engineered forms unite with transient physical elements such as light, mist, and bubbles. Shaped by natural forces like airflow, temperature, gravity, and chance, it delivers an ever-evolving experience that reflects A.A.Murakami’s philosophy of tying technology directly to physical reality.

SYMBIOSIS also elevates BMW’s “BMW Symbiotic Drive” concept into an artistic dimension. Through this approach, BMW treats driver and vehicle not as separate entities, but as a coordinated system where human intent and intelligent driver-assistance systems operate in unison. AI-supported systems anticipate and assist driver inputs – including acceleration, braking, and steering – to make the interaction between human and car seamless.

At the core of the installation stands the new BMW 7 Series. The vehicle’s monolithic design, interior, driving dynamics, and craftsmanship are integrated as intrinsic elements of the artwork’s interplay between technology, design, and physical experience. SYMBIOSIS thus harmonizes A.A.Murakami’s transient elements with BMW’s engineering prowess into a singular experience.

Hakan Tiftik, CEO of Borusan Otomotiv, stated: “We are delighted to bring the SYMBIOSIS installation – uniting BMW’s technology, design, and innovation with art – to art lovers at Contemporary Istanbul. The convergence of BMW Symbiotic Drive, which redefines the relationship between car and driver through the Neue Klasse vision, and A.A.Murakami’s artistic perspective combining tech with physical and natural processes highlights BMW’s future-oriented vision in a distinct experiential space. As Borusan Otomotiv, we are thrilled to share BMW’s innovative mindset through art and design.”

About the New BMW 7 Series.
As BMW’s flagship in the luxury segment, the new BMW 7 Series combines sophisticated design, superior comfort, and advanced technology into an unrivaled experience. Entering a new era midway through its seventh generation with a comprehensive update, the new BMW 7 Series pioneers the integration of Neue Klasse technologies into current models.

The monolithic exterior design, the illuminated Iconic Glow kidney grille, and minimalist crystal headlights emphasize its commanding, timeless stance. Inside, premium materials, meticulously crafted details, and cutting-edge technologies create an exclusive atmosphere. Next-generation features – such as BMW Panoramic iDrive, the BMW Passenger Display, and the enhanced BMW Theatre Screen – elevate passenger and driver comfort through a personalized digital journey. The new BMW 7 Series reinterprets modern luxury through aesthetics, technology, and superior craftsmanship.

About A.A.Murakami.
A.A.Murakami is an artist duo based in Tokyo / London, renowned for their innovative multisensory installations that explore the profound connection between art and nature. Their work draws inspiration from ancient traditions that sought to emulate and honour the natural world - whether through structures that charted the sun's path or cave paintings that depicted life thousands of years ago. A.A.Murakami’s creations reflect an innate human desire to connect with and revere the natural systems that lie both at the origins and the future of our existence.

Pioneers of "Ephemeral Tech," A.A.Murakami have coined this term to describe a new form of art that transcends familiar technological interfaces like LED arrays, projections, and screens. Instead, they use technology in combination with ethereal materials such as fog, plasma, and bubbles to create fleeting moments and entirely new, unnatural phenomena. 
A.A.Murakami’s work is featured in the permanent collections of MOMA in New York, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and M+ in Hong Kong.

Borusan Otomotiv Supports Contemporary Art with BMW’s Artistic Vision.
Borusan Otomotiv’s relationship with art is rooted in Borusan Holding’s heritage and the creative commitment of the BMW brand. As one of the most prominent global supporters of culture for over 50 years, BMW partners with major international platforms. Alongside visionary projects like the BMW Art Car Collection, BMW actively supports world-renowned contemporary art platforms, including Gallery Weekend Berlin, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, and Art Basel.
In Türkiye, Borusan Otomotiv fosters the development of contemporary art through its long-standing collaboration with Contemporary Istanbul. Within this platform, the company presents curated showcases that highlight the intersection of mobility, design, and creativity. Expanding this commitment globally, Borusan Otomotiv also became a sponsor of the Pavilion of Türkiye at the 61st Venice Biennale.This sponsorship elevates the company's local cultural and artistic investments in Türkiye onto one of the world's most prestigious international art stages.

The BMW Group's Cultural Engagement, with exclusive updates and deeper insights into its global initiatives can be followed on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.