Airwallex, has launched its ‘Shifted Perspectives’ campaign for the 2025 Formula 1 season in collaboration with the McLaren Formula 1 Team and acclaimed First Nations artist, Reko Rennie.
As an Official Partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team, Airwallex has strengthened its partnership through this creative collaboration with Reko Rennie, an internationally recognised Kamilaroi artist.
Rennie’s bold and thought-provoking work explores Indigenous identity and contemporary urban culture, aligning with the campaign’s theme of ‘shifting perspectives’.
His design for the McLaren Artura incorporates camouflage and graphic diamond patterns, with the diamond shape serving as a tribute to his Kamilaroi heritage, resembling a family crest.
Hand-drawn symbols and repetitive patterns subvert traditional perceptions of Aboriginal identity.
His bespoke artwork transforms the McLaren Artura Coupe, a high-performance hybrid supercar, into a striking sculptural installation that merges art and performance, reflecting the shared spirit of innovation between Airwallex and McLaren.
“At Airwallex, we’re always looking for ways to push boundaries and create unexpected moments that provoke thought,”
said Jon Stona, VP, Global Marketing, Airwallex.
“Seeing Reko’s design come to life on the McLaren Artura was a truly special moment. Just like McLaren challenges conventions on the track, and Oscar Piastri takes on the world’s best in F1, we want to encourage Australian businesses to shift their perspectives, take bold steps, and scale globally.”
Rennie added,
“Unveiling this design in front of a live audience has been incredible. As a lover of both art and sport, the crowd reaction affirmed how art and sport can intersect to create something truly unique. At the core, this collaboration is a celebration of innovation, heritage and pushing boundaries, which is what I try to embody in my work, and Airwallex and McLaren represent. I look forward to people seeing it in the flesh this week.”
The McLaren Artura featuring Rennie’s design is now on public display at Queensbridge Square from 7am to 7pm daily from 13 to 16 March 2025, allowing fans the opportunity to experience the one-of-a-kind artwork in person.
As part of the campaign, Airwallex also announced the winners of three business grants, awarding a total of US$25,000 to Australian entrepreneurs and professionals who demonstrate ambition and innovative thinking.
The grants aim to support businesses in driving innovation and expanding their reach.
Edward Barraclough, founder of Drone-Hand, received the US$10,000 Business Acceleration Grant for his pioneering use of drone technology in agtech.
Transitioning from an award-winning aerial photo-videographer to an agtech innovator, Barraclough has developed drone solutions that enhance farm management, addressing the growing need for safer and more efficient practices in response to extreme climate events.
Fiona Harrison, founder of Chocolate on Purpose, was awarded the US$10,000 First Nations Business Grant for her dedication to blending a passion for chocolate with a broader social impact.
Leila Oliviera, from Antler, received the US$5,000 Professional Acceleration Grant to advance her career through learning and development.
She has worked to uncover untapped entrepreneurial talent among underrepresented groups and, by positioning herself as an approachable investor, has helped to foster greater inclusivity within the venture capital sector.
Featured image credit: edited from freepik
