Bentley Unveils the ‘Belonging Bentayga’ Painted by Stephen Wiltshire Celebrating Inclusion

As the next step in its mission to become the world’s most diverse luxury car manufacturer, Bentley Motors today launches the ‘Belonging Bentayga’.

This unique hand-painted Alpine Green Bentayga Hybrid features different skylines and well-known buildings worldwide, such as New York, London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Venice, Tokyo and Hong Kong – each side of the car representing a different continent.

The art piece that displays 29 various landmarks is drawn from memory by Stephen Wiltshire MBE, a British architectural artist and autistic savant known for his ability to draw a landscape after seeing it just once.

This is the first time a Bentley has been hand-painted in this way at the factory in Crewe, developed with a unique process from the Bentley Excellence Centre Bespoke Paint team.

The design includes many drawings of people and nationalities united in one procedure. The Bentley Bentayga is the third piece of art unveiled by the company to mark its commitment to diversity.

“We’re delighted that Stephen has agreed to collaborate to create the ‘Belonging Bentayga’,” said Chief Communications and D&I Officer Wayne Bruce. “This remarkable car celebrates Bentley craftsmanship and Stephen’s unique artistic genius. It’s also a key element in our Beyond100 strategy, which includes our industry-leading, five-step diversity and inclusion plan.”        

Stephen Wiltshire comments: “Buildings have a way of telling a story, where you were born, your first job, the first church you got married, happy memories mean happy people. I have been on many travels throughout my career, and what stands out for me the most are the buildings, their architecture and the people. Bentley and the Belonging Bentayga relate similarly, bringing people together, creating a journey, and creating memories. My art has always been about existing and connecting. The Belonging Bentayga was a great challenge for me, but I like to be challenged as it tests my ability, and it also proves that if you put your heart and soul into it, you can overcome anything. I am very proud of the finished car, which looks amazing!”

Stephen Wiltshire was born in London to West Indian parents. As a child, he was mute and, aged three, was diagnosed with autism. However, his family and teachers soon realised that rather than using words, Stephen communicated through the language of drawing. He started with animals before graduating to buses and, finally, buildings. His sketches detailed cityscapes, which feature a subtle wit, have earned him plaudits worldwide.

In 2021, having recognised the fundamental importance of diverse experiences and perspectives, Bentley Motors set out a five-step strategy focusing on outreach, recruitment, succession, planning, culture and development to enhance diversity and inclusion at the brand’s Crewe-based dream factory.