With the collective mission to inspire and enable creative self-expression in us all, Bombay Sapphire® and the Basquiat Estate have joined forces in the creation of an exclusive Special Edition bottle that pays tribute to cultural icon and prolific artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat.

A defining force in the New York City art scene in the 1980s, Basquiat created a global legacy though his iconic style and the social commentary behind his work, which has greatly influenced modern and contemporary art. This Special Edition showcases Untitled (L.A. Painting), a true masterpiece which features many of the key motifs that we’ve come to associate with Basquiat’s work: the bird, the coin, the skull and the artist’s signature crown.

Independent design agency Knockout participated in this incredible collaboration by adapting this panoramic work of art onto Bombay Sapphire’s iconic bottle. The fastidious task was to maintain the integrity of the original piece, while still allowing the equities of the premium gin brand to shine through.

With its soft blue hues and underlayers of golden yellow, Untitled (L.A. Painting) was the ideal piece to complement the Bombay Sapphire brand. An innovative transfer technology was used to seamlessly apply the artwork to all sides of the bottle, allowing the painting to be presented in all its glory, unconstrained by the limitations of a label. Not only does this technique produce premium quality results, but it also removes the need to use plastic shrink wrap, which aligns perfectly with Bombay Sapphire’s mission to become the world’s most sustainable gin. The design of this Special Edition is then finished with a bespoke i-strip and cap that features Basquiat’s signature crown.

“Basquiat had a unique and profound artistic voice that still ripples through our culture, providing endless inspiration to artists and designers alike. As admirers ourselves, we were absolutely thrilled and humbled to be part of this project,” comments Dominic Burke, Founder and Creative Director at Knockout. “Our number one priority was in being faithful and true to Basquiat’s work, ensuring it was presented in a way that honoured and continued his legacy.”

“As a patron of the arts, Bombay Sapphire has long supported the work of artists ever since the brand’s inception. In collaborating with the Basquiat Estate on this Special Edition, we hope to inspire the creative expression of people from all walks of life as we celebrate the life and work of Basquiat,” comments Jamie Keller, Bombay Sapphire Brand Director, US. “Our trusted partners at Knockout have given this project the care and respect it deserves, helping us create a Special Edition that shines a light on Basquiat’s fearless creativity and meaningful artistic expression that transcends generations.”