This past weekend, the most exclusive automotive event in the Hamptons returned to the grounds of the former Bridgehampton Race Circuit, The Bridge IX. Now in its ninth year, the invite-only showcase, presented by Mercedes-Maybach, featured more than 300 of the world’s rarest vehicles.
This year’s presenting sponsor, Mercedes-Maybach, unveiled the Mercedes-Maybach SL, the brand’s first open-top roadster. Guests also enjoyed exclusive Mercedes-Maybach test drives from Topping Rose House. Volvo’s curated exhibition highlighted both vintage classics—including the Volvo P1900 Convertible and Amazon—and new models such as the all-electric EX90.
Bridge IX favorites and newcomers in the automotive, design, aviation, and lifestyle spaces—including Luminari Motor Company, Gunther Werks, Faricars, Expedition Motor Company, Roche Bobois, Morgan Motor Company, and Arcade Cars—contributed to the visually stunning landscape.
A major highlight was a panel conversation moderated by Driven Artists Racing Team (DART Car) co-founder and art advisor Spring McManus, spotlighting the intersection of motorsports, contemporary art, and female leadership.
The panel featured:
Julie Mehretu, BMW’s 20th Art Car artist
Mickalene Thomas, creator of the first DART Car
Zoë Barry, co-founder of the female-led motorsports team DART
Thomas Girst, BMW’s Global Head of Cultural Engagement
The riveting discussion explored art, performance, and culture. The East Coast debut of BMW Art Car No. 20 by Julie Mehretu—a stunning, captivating piece—perfectly marked the 50th anniversary of BMW’s Art Car legacy. Displayed alongside it was the first DART Car: a McLaren Artura GT4 racecar with a custom wrap by acclaimed contemporary artist Mickalene Thomas.
We caught up with Zoë Barry, co-founder of the female-led motorsports team DART. She highlighted the significance of their #44 car, noting that only 4% of artists represented at auction are women, and just 4% of racecar drivers are women.
“We’re making history together because BMW founded the Art Car initiative and has created 20 cars with only four female artists. A female artist also designed this DART Car, so it’s one of the first times that two art cars have been shown together by two female artists,” said Zoë Barry. “All of our elements are available for collection, and the first Mickalene Thomas helmet sold for $150,000 at an auction at Silverstone F1 in July.”
Another highlight was Pivotal’s Helix EVTOL aircraft demonstration, which captivated crowds.
The Bridge IX has cemented itself as the premier automotive event in the Hamptons, raising the bar for automotive excellence year after year.
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