As a great honour bestowed upon the recipient, the award recognises Esther Mahlangu’s exceptional contributions and accomplishments over her 50-year career as a contemporary artist.

Minister Zizi Kodwa of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture announced the introduction of the all-encompassing awards celebration last year to recognise individuals who show outstanding artistic and technical achievements in the arts and culture sector.

Along with the rest of the country, BMW Group South Africa celebrated Esther Mahlangu’s remarkable journey and legacy. And, more sentimentally, the award handover exemplified the valued partnership between the global automotive giant and the globally acclaimed visual artist that spans over 30 years.

In 1991, BMW Group selected Esther Mahlangu as the 12^th Art Car artist, making her the first African and the first woman commissioned to create a BMW Art Car. The distinctive design on the now-iconic BMW 525i Art Car resulted in a standout moment in the art world, with Esther Mahlangu lending her talent to groundbreaking industrial applications of future automotive designs. Her traditional Ndebele elements, synonymous with her style, feature in subsequent work with the BMW brand.

BMW Group South Africa Director: Government Affairs and Communications Thilosh Moodally, commented: “We are honoured to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mam’ Esther Mahlangu. We are especially grateful to be in her presence this evening.

“To witness a living icon – one who has contributed significantly to the innovation that we so greatly believe in – is truly precious. We thank the Minister for introducing this important awards recognition that inspires our nation and beyond. We also thank the country for continuously championing the pioneering work of Mam’ Esther.”