The Paris-based contemporary artist on her Miami Art Week collaboration with Acura

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Interview: Dalkhafine’s Surreal Road to Scope Art Fair

The Paris-based contemporary artist on her Miami Art Week collaboration with Acura

Mike Tommasiello

13 December 2024

This Miami Art Week, Acura partnered with Paris-based contemporary artist Dalkhafine, whose distinct blend of abstraction and surrealism became the perfect backdrop for their new ADX all-electric car right on the sands of South Beach—in front of the Scope Art Fair. We sat down with Dalkhafine to talk about her trippy, out-of-this-world mural, which she created specifically for the event. 

 What drew you to partner with Acura for this year’s Scope Art Fair at Miami Art Week?

I was invited by Acura to create an art installation to showcase their new ADX all-electric vehicle. Collaborating with a car brand has been a long-time dream of mine: I’ve always loved the world of cars, the thrill of speed and Formula 1. So when this opportunity came along, I didn’t hesitate for a second to say yes!

Can you tell us about the creative process behind your installation for the fair?

I envisioned an artistic installation that invites viewers to discover the new ADX through a playful and immersive journey. The experience begins by following a “fantasy road,” shifting between vibrant lines, intricate patterns, and stretches that resemble a real road—elements inspired by the dynamic energy of highways and the thrill of F1 racing. This path guides visitors around the cars, encouraging exploration and discovery, before culminating in front of a mural that marks the journey’s end. The arches appear as a frame, inviting the viewer to contemplate this endless perspective and the setting sun. All around, windows connected by clouds illustrate the interdependence of every element, symbolizing a dreamlike world where everything is linked. The woman, gazing into the distance, embodies this deep connection with nature and the universe. The arches are not just a visual frame; they also become an interactive space, offering a unique experience, much like an artistic photo booth.

How does showcasing your work at SCOPE elevate your approach to blending art and technology?

SCOPE is an iconic event, always ahead of its time. It’s a place where traditional paintings coexist with groundbreaking art installations and innovative digital creations. The energy and creativity at the event are incredibly inspiring, and I left feeling recharged with fresh ideas for future projects.

Were there any specific challenges or breakthroughs in collaborating with a car brand for an art fair?

Every project feels like stepping into a new playground, and this one was no exception. Collaborating with a car brand brought its own unique set of opportunities, which I found incredibly exciting. The real “challenge” was more about aligning my artistic vision with Acura’s brand ethos and creating something that felt authentic to both. This process pushed me to think outside the box and embrace new ideas, which I love.

One breakthrough was seeing how well the worlds of art and automotive design could intersect. Acura gave me the freedom to infuse my style while celebrating their innovative spirit, which was truly rewarding. I particularly enjoyed designing elements like the car wraps, which allowed me to merge my graphic universe with their cutting-edge vehicle design. This collaboration felt like a perfect fusion of creativity and technology, and I had an absolute blast bringing it to life!

How does the setting of Scope Art Fair influence how audiences perceive your work?

Scope is an incredible event showcasing a wealth of talent. Being part of it was a dream come true. It’s a fantastic platform to share your work and connect with people. I received so much positive feedback, it’s truly heartwarming. Projects like this feed both my creativity and my everyday life.

If you had to describe your installation in three words, what would they be and why?

I’d choose journey, graphic and fun. 

The installation is all about taking visitors on a visual journey. From the moment they step onto the “fantastic road,” they’re invited to explore, discover and immerse themselves in a playful narrative. It’s not just about observing the artwork; it’s about engaging with it, moving through the space, and feeling part of the story. The word graphic reflects the bold visual language I used: vivid colors, patterns and dynamic lines inspired by the energy of roads, racing and the movement we associate with cars. And finally, fun captures the essence of what I aim to create. Art should be accessible and enjoyable, and I wanted this installation to spark joy and curiosity. The photo booth setup with the mural and arches was designed for interaction, and seeing people take photos, laugh, and share their moments made it all worthwhile. In essence, this installation celebrates movement, creativity, and connection, bringing the dynamic world of automotive design into an imaginative and engaging artistic space.

·What role does mobility or movement play in your artwork, especially in this collaboration?

Movement is central to my life, I’m constantly traveling between Paris and Montreal. My journeys have always shaped my creativity, which may be why I feel such a connection to the world of automobiles. Cars represent constant motion, freedom and the ability to explore new places. That resonates deeply with my philosophy of always moving forward.

How do partnerships like this one shape the future of art in commercial and public spaces?

These collaborations are transforming how art is experienced in public and commercial spaces. Traditionally, art was static and isolated, but now we’re creating dynamic, immersive environments that engage audiences in new ways. Brands are beginning to understand the power of art to connect on a deeper level, which makes these partnerships exciting! 360-degree projects are especially interesting because they go beyond visuals to fully transform a space. From murals and car wraps to immersive installations, these elements combine to create something playful, impactful and engaging. By breaking down the boundaries between art and daily life, these projects make art more accessible and relevant, offering an experience that is both interactive and inspiring.

What was the most unexpected moment during the creation of this project?

I also designed car wraps for two vehicles: the ADX and the ZDX, showcased outside the Loews Hotel in Miami. When I saw them for the first time, I was so moved I almost cried. Wrapping a car in my designs has been a dream of mine for so long, and seeing it come to life was surreal. Often, we work in front of our screens, so seeing my designs brought to life was truly exceptional. The execution was flawless, it was so incredible to see my vision so perfectly respected!

Looking beyond Miami Art Week, how do you see yourself further blending art, design, and innovation?

I want to keep creating immersive art installations that blend murals, 3D structures and floor designs. Inviting people into my universe and offering them a memorable experience is something I’m deeply passionate about. I see this medium as a perfect playground for exploring new ideas, like combining art installations with video projections to push the boundaries of design and innovation even further.