In the world of contemporary art, few names carry the same energy as Cyril Kongo. Known for transforming graffiti into a globally recognized artistic language, the artist now brings his vision to one of the most commanding luxury motor cars on the road: the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan. Created as a series of five Private Commissions, the project represents a close collaboration between the creative and the brand, with Kongo working alongside Rolls-Royce designers, engineers, and craftsmen at Goodwood to create what is essentially a rolling masterpiece.
The most distinctive feature of this vehicle is the interior, displaying what is called the “Kongoverse.” The Starlight Headliner serves as an ultimate expression of Kongo’s vision. Inspired by astronomy, imagination, and quantum physics, it features more than 1,300 fiber-optic lights alongside hand-painted elements that depict planets, constellations, and symbolic references. Each headliner is individually created using multiple custom paint colors and includes carefully positioned shooting stars, with one extending the full length of the ceiling.
The cabin is divided into four distinct color environments: Phoenix Red, Turchese, Forge Yellow, and Mandarin. The seating areas are individually defined through contrasting leathers, stitching, piping, and embroidered monograms. Lambswool carpets further reinforce each color zone. Hand-painted veneer surfaces continue the artistic narrative across the fascia, center console, picnic tables, and rear waterfall section. The car’s artwork is applied directly by the artisan’s hand then preserved beneath multiple layers of lacquer to guarantee durability.
Kongo’s motifs are integrated throughout the interior using a combination of embroidery and hand-applied detailing, ensuring that every car presents a unique composition aligned with his visual identity.
“Creativity and imagination are the forces that define Rolls-Royce, shaping motor cars that are as individual as their owners. To bring this idea to life, we collaborated with Cyril Kongo, whose expressive, uncompromising style resonated perfectly with the spirit of Black Badge.” –Domagoj Dukec, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
The car is a version of the Black Badge Cullinan, the most assertive expression of Rolls-Royce’s all-terrain SUVs. Its exterior is finished in Blue Crystal over Black, providing a deep, reflective surface that contrasts with its vivid detailing. The Black Badge Cullinan is a perfect canvas for Kongo’s colorful work, as the noir aesthetic makes the bright hues shine. A defining feature is Rolls-Royce’s first Gradient Coachline, which transitions through multiple colors along the body. This is complemented by colored brake callipers, extending the stylistic theme with precise, engineered accents while maintaining the car’s commanding and contemporary presence.
Through this combination of contemporary art and Rolls-Royce craftsmanship, the Black Badge Cullinan by Cyril Kongo reflects a highly personalized approach to luxury, defined by precision, performance, and creative collaboration. All five Black Badge Cullinans by Cyril Kongo are allocated to collectors worldwide.
