Porsche Singapore's 'Driving Tomorrow' Event Highlights with Auto Icons
Auto Icons Joins Porsche Singapore’s ‘Driving Tomorrow’ Series with Global Artists
Auto Icons joined the first edition of the 2025 “Driving Tomorrow” series hosted by Porsche Asia Pacific, kicking off with an exploration of "Unconventional Art" during Singapore Art Week 2025 on January 19th at the Porsche Singapore showroom. This event brought together some of the most innovative minds from the worlds of automotive excellence and art.
Colin Chow, our founder of Auto Icons and curator for bespoke luxury experiences, shared in an exciting conversation with Red Hong Yi, a globally celebrated Malaysian-born artist and architectural designer recognized for her boundary-pushing large-scale installations and Chris Dunlop, an acclaimed Californian automotive artist whose unique freehand designs transform cars into automotive cultural rolling masterpieces. Together, the trailblazers shared their personal journeys and the ever-evolving intersections between art and automobiles.
From left to right: Red Hong Yi, Chris Dunlop, Colin Chow (Founder, Auto Icons), Brendan Mok (Head of PR & Communications, Porsche Singapore)
Where Performance Meets Artistic Vision
The panel discussion delved into the concept of cars as unconventional canvases, with cars reimagined as a dynamic medium for artistic expression. Set against Porsche’s legacy of luxury and craftsmanship, the discussion highlighted how the automobile - often seen as a feat of engineering and performance - has evolved into a unique artistic canvas, blending form and function in unexpected ways.
Chris Dunlop shared his artistic process, reflecting,“I’ve always been drawn to the finer details. Sometimes, it’s a small corner of the car that tells the most compelling story. There are cars that have so much to say in the close-up, and then there are those where the entire vehicle needs to be captured. But the real challenge lies in those moments where I’ve spent hours with the car, studying photos, trying to find that one angle - a special moment that no one else would see or capture in a photo. It’s about finding something truly unique, a moment that resonates deeply. For me, drawing a full car is not just about the whole picture, but about pinpointing that rare perspective that tells a story only I can bring to life." –Chris Dunlop
Colin Chow explained his deep connection to unconventional car art, saying,“Unconventional car art has always spoken to me because, at its core, it’s about more than just a vehicle - it's about the story it tells. Take Andy Warhol’s BMW M1 from 1979, or Daniel Arsham’s Porsche 911 Eroded in 2019, or even Stefan Johansson’s 2023 Porsche 911 TAG Turbo - each of these pieces pushes the boundaries of automotive art in their own unique way. For me, it’s not just about having a pretty paint job; it’s about the passion behind it. It’s the connection to the car, the driver, the history, and the craftsmanship. These cars, and the art they carry, speak to my love for the motorsport world. I’ve always loved building cars, so when art and cars come together in such an unconventional way, it becomes something truly special."– Colin Chow
The Unveiling: Porsche 911 DakarT - A New Evolution
This thought-provoking event also featured the highly anticipated reveal of the Porsche 911 DakarT, the second iteration of this exclusive model born from a collaboration between Auto Icons and Chris Dunlop. After making waves at Monterey Car Week 2024 in California, the DakarT arrived in Singapore, re-emerging with a stunning new evolution that pushes the limits of automotive art and customization.
Chris Dunlop’s vision for the DakarT continues to redefine the relationship between art and motion. Each high-performance vehicle becomes a rolling canvas, a masterpiece that tells a story with every mile.
"As an automotive artist, my journey began with the vibrant world of 50s and 60s classic cars, where the airbrushing techniques I mastered were directly influenced by the custom hot rod culture of the time. The art of detailing cars with bold, intricate designs was not only about enhancing the aesthetic of the vehicle, but also about embracing a form of creative expression that was uniquely tied to automotive culture. Over time, I found that the same techniques and tools that worked so well on metal surfaces translated seamlessly onto canvas. The precision of airbrushing and the fluidity of design made the transition to canvas both natural and exciting." –Chris Dunlop
Live Art in Action: A One-of-a-Kind Commission
A highlight of the event was Chris Dunlop’s extraordinary craftsmanship, as he took a Porsche barrel seat and turned it into a stunning work of art, showcasing his signature style after the panel discussion. Guests were treated to an exclusive live painting session by showcasing his freehand artistry in real-time. What started as a blank canvas on the Porsche barrel quickly transformed into a one-of-a-kind commissioned artwork, capturing the spirit of Porsche and the passions of its enthusiasts.
The experience was extended to the public, allowing art lovers and automotive aficionados the opportunity to witness Chris’ creative process up close, deepening the connection between cars and the world of art.
The Journey Continues
With the closing of Singapore Art Week, the conversation between art and automotive excellence continues to evolve. This collaboration is just the beginning of a movement where Porsche’s vision, Auto Icons’ unique approach, and the artistic genius of Chris Dunlop and Red Hong Yi create experiences that resonate with luxury collectors, car enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. Stay tuned for more immersive moments that blend high-performance driving with unconventional artistry.
Discover Unique Car Experiences at Auto Icons
Auto Icons is a premier car dealer based in Singapore bringing its expertise and a curated experience that connects owners not only to their luxury cars but to the artistry that makes each one unique - an experience, a story, and a piece of art that transcends traditional car buying. Colin believes in connecting clients with the artistry, craftsmanship, and passion behind the wheels. From exclusive driving events to personalized car experiences that are tailored to each individual, Auto Icons ensures that every interaction is as exceptional as the cars we offer. Colin’s approach is built on creating experiences, not just sales for car enthusiasts, collectors, and those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Colin Chow shared his enthusiasm for one particularly unforgettable event, saying,
"Being part of Porsche’s exclusive events like the one for Porsche Germany that we had for our clients’ Carrera GT and 918 Spyder Owner’s Drive, was truly unforgettable. It’s not just about the cars; it’s about the experiences and the memories made along the way. Friendships and professional networks were built to meet like-minded people with the same passion and drive. We create a space where the cars are a bridge and it’s amazing to see how diverse backgrounds come together unified for the love of cars sparking conversations and bonds from hotel owners, ski lovers, industrialists, to car collectors. From the stunning landscapes of the Alps to the winding roads of Italy, Austria, and Switzerland, every moment is an adventure. We’re fortunate to help source the perfect cars for these journeys, creating incredible tours that our clients will remember for a lifetime."
— Colin Chow
Looking for more than just a car? At Auto Icons, we specialize in crafting exclusive car experiences that blend luxury, performance, and artistry. Whether you're seeking the thrill of high-end city driving or craving a truly bespoke, customized automotive masterpiece, we offer a journey that goes beyond ownership. Contact us today on the form here or via WhatsApp for instant assistance, or email us to learn more about our immersive and unique car experiences.