Create a space in which the design-process of a car is shown, from an unspecified starting point via competing forms to the finished result.

Instead of simply showing images or movies, we wanted to demonstrate the design-process in a challenging, metaphorical way. Therefore, we developed the Kinetic Sculpture, which shows the process of form-finding in a three-dimensional space. It focuses the central topic “Design” in the new BMW Museum and sets the tone for the entire exhibition, attuning visitors of all ages to the museum from the very beginning.

Shortly after the opening of the BMW Museum, the Kinetic Sculpture became the most watched video worldwide in the category “Automotive” on YouTube for a week.

The Kinetic Sculpture is a metaphorical translation of the process of form-finding in design.

714 metal spheres, hanging from thin steel wires attached to individually-controlled stepper motors and covering the area of six square meters, animate a seven minute long mechatronic narrative. Moving chaotically at first, the sculpture evolves through several competing forms and eventually resolves into a final shape whose profile hints at one of many well-known, historic and latest, BMW automobiles.

The cycle is synchronised with a graphic light strip running around the walls and texts and audio quotes from BMW associates on the company’s values and design aims.