Conversation with Chris Dunlop and Auto Icons: The Automotive Artist Redefining Car Culture

We are excited to spotlight a visionary in the realm of automotive artistry - Chris Dunlop, affectionately known by his moniker, Pinstripe Chris. With a lifelong passion for cars that ignited in his childhood, Chris has transformed his early sketches into a celebrated career as an automotive artist. Recently, he shared his inspiring journey and creative insights during an exclusive collaboration with Auto Icons, Singapore’s premier luxury car dealership.

The Porsche 911 DakarT is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that embodies the spirit of automotive artistry and exceptional craftsmanship. This remarkable vehicle was initially painted by Chris Dunlop for the world-class Monterey Car Week in 2024, where its stunning design and intricate details captivated audiences and automotive enthusiasts alike. Following its success, the car made its way to Singapore, where it was unveiled once again in a grand presentation at the Auto Icons showroom and the Porsche showroom during Singapore Art Week. This second version, meticulously repainted by Chris, showcases his evolution as an artist and his deepening connection to the vehicle. During the debut event, Chris shared the inspiration behind the updated design, emphasizing that “this is not just a car; it’s a statement and testament to individuality, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection.”

Chris’s artistic journey began at an impressively young age. “I’ve always drawn cars,” he reminisces, reflecting on his childhood enthusiasm. His fascination, especially for the iconic Dodge Viper and the 1994 Cadillac Eldorado, laid the foundation for his craft. It was in middle school that Chris truly honed his skills and cultivated his love for automotive design, embarking on a path that would lead him to become a key figure in the automotive art scene.

Chris's inaugural art car project was a transformative experience that set the stage for his future endeavors. Invited to Northern California to paint a car for a tattoo enthusiast, he drew inspiration from the owner’s body art. “I thought it’d be cool to replicate his tattoos on the whole car,” he explains, highlighting the blend of personal expression and automotive design that would become his trademark.

When Auto Icons approached Chris to create an art car for our client, the excitement was palpable. “I receive many inquiries, but not all come to fruition,” he shares. “When something like this materializes, it feels like a dream.” Collaborating with a passionate team on a unique project epitomized Chris’s vision for automotive artistry.

As the project unfolded, Chris embraced the blend of excitement and logistical challenges. “I get excited, but I keep my emotions in check until just days before,” he notes. Upon receiving the car, he discovered it was ceramic-coated, adding unexpected complexity. “You take a short working time and throw in a variable you could never anticipate,” he reflects, but Chris thrived in the challenge, adapting to ensure the artwork flourished.

The colors and designs chosen for Chris’s first art car drew inspiration from Singapore’s vibrant culture and landscapes. “I had a broad palette, but I wanted to weave in elements unique to Singapore,” he explains. The city’s intricate architecture and lush greenery served as a stunning backdrop, leading to a breathtaking fusion of automotive art and local flavor."

With the second iteration of the art car, Chris elevated his vision. The complete disassembly of the car allowed for a more intricate paint job. “This version became a more collaborative effort,” he reveals. By working closely with trusted technicians, they refined color choices and symmetry, culminating in a visually cohesive masterpiece. Hidden details - Easter eggs from his USA trip - infused an additional layer of storytelling into the artwork."

Upon learning he would travel to Singapore to celebrate the art car’s unveiling, Chris felt a mix of anticipation and nervousness. “I always have a million things to do,” he admits, but he knew he had to seize this opportunity. Upon arrival, Chris was captivated by the unique charm and vibrancy of Singapore. “The city looks so different at night, and the greenery is absolutely stunning!” he exclaimed.

One of the trip’s highlights was the opportunity to paint live in front of an audience. “I enjoy painting with an audience,” he admits. “It’s exciting for people to witness the artwork unfold in real-time.” The dynamic atmosphere added an exhilarating dimension to the creative process, making it a memorable experience for both Chris and the spectators.

Chris Dunlop’s journey as an automotive artist showcases the power of passion, creativity, and collaboration. His partnership with Auto Icons has produced this stunning art car and has breathed new life into automotive culture. As he continues to explore new horizons in automotive artistry, one thing is clear: Chris Dunlop is a true visionary, redefining what it means to be an automotive artist.

At Auto Icons, your trusted car dealership and curator of unique experiences, we invite you to explore the creative potential of automotive art. If you’re interested in transforming your vehicle into a masterpiece or learning more about the fusion of art and cars, connect with us. Reach out via WhatsApp for instant support, send us an email for personalized guidance, or submit the form with your creative ideas.