In a remarkable celebration of creativity, compassion, and the boundless power of dreams, McLaren Automotive has partnered with Art of Wishes and acclaimed British-Nigerian artist and designer, Yinka Ilori MBE, to create a truly unique expression of art and hope — all in support of Make-A-Wish UK. At the heart of this artistic alliance lies a singular object of desire: a McLaren supercar bonnet transformed into a vibrant, hand-painted masterpiece.
Crafted as part of a two-day live installation during Frieze London 2024 — one of the art world’s most anticipated annual gatherings — Ilori’s artwork unfolded in real time within the elegant courtyard of The Peninsula London. Drawing inspiration from his evocative floral print series Paradise for All, Ilori’s work explores the theme of impermanence and rebirth through the delicate yet enduring symbol of the flower. It’s a motif that resonates deeply with the mission of Make-A-Wish, which offers life-affirming hope to children living with critical illnesses.
“I’ve always believed in the power of dreaming,” Ilori explains. “It is a core theme in my work and one that I hope inspires people to always follow their hearts. I am therefore so proud to continue supporting Art of Wishes and Make-A-Wish in the incredible work they are doing to help make children’s dreams a reality. I’m also grateful to McLaren for providing the canvas to make this special project happen.”
Following its live debut, the McLaren toured the UK for three months, gracing the showrooms of the iconic British marque before the bonnet was carefully removed and prepared for its next role — not as a piece of performance engineering, but as an object of cultural and philanthropic significance.
Now, this singular bonnet will take centre stage once more in Art of Wishes’ “British. Cool.” online auction, hosted by the prestigious Bonhams auction house. Running from 7–16 April 2025, the auction offers collectors, enthusiasts, and philanthropists the rare opportunity to own an extraordinary artwork — with all proceeds dedicated to Make-A-Wish UK, helping to turn the dreams of children facing unimaginable challenges into joyful realities.
Founded in 2017 by philanthropist Batia Ofer, Art of Wishes has raised more than £13 million for Make-A-Wish UK through a dynamic programme of events, exhibitions, and collaborations. Ofer’s vision is rooted in the idea that art has the power not only to provoke thought and evoke emotion, but also to bring people together in meaningful support of a greater cause.
“I am so grateful to Yinka Ilori for supporting Art of Wishes once again and partnering with us on this incredible collaboration with McLaren to help us grant more wishes for children when they need it most,” says Ofer.
This isn’t the first time Ilori has lent his creative flair to Art of Wishes. His partnership with the initiative began in 2023, when he infused his unmistakable colour palette and narrative-rich aesthetic into every detail of their celebrated bi-annual gala — from invitations and tablecloths to a show-stopping stage design. It marked the beginning of a vibrant and heartfelt creative alliance.
By reimagining the supercar as a canvas, McLaren Automotive brings its legacy of design innovation and boundary-pushing performance into a new dimension — one where the beauty of speed meets the beauty of purpose. The result is more than a collector’s piece; it is a symbol of connection, community, and the transformative power of generosity.
As the auction approaches, one thing is certain: this collaboration exemplifies what’s possible when the worlds of art, automotive excellence, and charitable action converge. In this unique fusion of form and feeling, the bonnet does more than reflect light — it reflects hope.
Auction Details
Event: British. Cool. Online Auction
Auction House: Bonhams
Dates: 7–16 April 2025
Proceeds: 100% in support of Make-A-Wish UK
