Bentley Unveils the ‘Belonging Bentayga’ Painted by Stephen Wiltshire, Celebrating Inclusion
In a remarkable testament to inclusivity and artistic prowess, Bentley Motors presents the ‘Belonging Bentayga’ project, a unique hand-painted Alpine Green Bentayga Hybrid. This creation, featuring 29 different landmarks and representations of people from around the world, stands as a bold statement for diversity and belonging. Crafted in collaboration with British architectural artist and autistic savant, Stephen Wiltshire MBE, this masterpiece showcases skylines and iconic buildings from major cities, symbolising unity across continents.
The Alpine Green Bentayga Hybrid is a groundbreaking project, marking the first instance of a Bentley being hand-painted in this distinctive manner at the Crewe factory. The artistry, manifesting in the form of intricate skylines and global landmarks, was brought to life through a unique process by the Bentley Excellence Centre Bespoke Paint team.
Celebrating Global Diversity
The ‘Belonging Bentayga’ project is a powerful expression of Bentley’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Wayne Bruce, Chief Communications and D&I Officer, expressed delight in collaborating with Stephen Wiltshire to create this extraordinary piece, and emphasised how this car is a celebration of Bentley’s craftsmanship, Stephen’s unique artistic talent, and aligns seamlessly with their Beyond100 strategy focused on diversity and inclusion.
Bentley’s workforce, comprising individuals from 52 different nationalities, reflects the brand’s dedication to global diversity. Their team crafts and sells luxury cars across 67 countries, underscoring the message that no matter where one resides, they truly belong. The ‘Belonging Bentayga’ project mirrors Stephen Wiltshire’s ethos of doing one’s best and never stopping, a philosophy that resonates with Bentley’s dedication to nurturing the potential of all individuals.
Stephen Wiltshire’s Unique Journey
Stephen Wiltshire, born in London to West Indian parents, found his voice through drawing at a young age. Diagnosed with autism at three, Stephen communicated through his extraordinary artistic talent. Starting with animals, he progressed to buses and eventually to intricate cityscapes. His sketches, detailed and infused with subtle wit, have earned him acclaim worldwide.
Reflecting on the artwork, Stephen Wiltshire emphasised the power of buildings to tell stories and evoke memories. He saw a profound connection between Bentley and the Bentayga, both entities bringing people together, creating journeys, and crafting lasting memories. For him, this project was a fulfilling challenge that allowed him to test his abilities and showcase the beauty of unity through art.
Bentley’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Bentley Motors recognised the fundamental importance of diverse experiences and perspectives, setting out a comprehensive five-step strategy in 2021 to enhance diversity and inclusion. Focusing on outreach, recruitment, succession planning, culture, and development, this strategy emphasises the brand’s dedication to creating an inclusive and empowering work environment.
In conclusion, the ‘Belonging Bentayga’ project is a symbol of unity, celebrating the rich tapestry of global cultures and people. Crafted with meticulous care and artistic finesse, this one-of-a-kind creation echoes Bentley’s commitment to embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging for all.
