Martell, Pernod Ricard’s iconic cognac brand famed for its bold and boundary-breaking spirit, has unveiled The Swift Ascendant — a monumental art installation created in partnership with internationally acclaimed metal sculptor, Dotun Popoola.
Dotun Popoola, celebrated for his mastery of transforming discarded materials into breathtaking works of art, is a leading pioneer of scrap art in Africa. Through his renowned Scrap Art Museum, he continues to redefine waste by giving forgotten metal remnants new life, purpose, and identity.
In The Swift Ascendant, Popoola brings this artistic philosophy to life by assembling hundreds of scrap-metal components into a stunning recreation of Maison Martell’s historic emblem — the legendary Swift. This distinct bird, engraved on every Martell bottle, represents the House’s enduring values of audacity, freedom, and boundless exploration.
The installation, a major highlight of Martell’s vibrant “Martell on the Move” campaign celebrating boldness and motion, was unveiled on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Wings Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Michael Ehindero, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, described the piece as a profound expression of Martell’s heritage.
“Martell has always stood for pushing boundaries — for choosing boldness over routine,” he said. “The Swift Ascendant perfectly captures that spirit, transforming discarded materials into a masterpiece that tells a powerful story of vision, creativity, and responsible transformation.”
Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, highlighted the cultural and emotional resonance of the artwork.
“The Swift Ascendant is more than an installation — it is a conversation starter,” she noted. “As it travels across Lagos, we expect it to spark inspiration, curiosity, and deeper engagement with our consumers.”
The initiative aligns with Pernod Ricard’s Sustainability and Responsibility Roadmap under its Circular Making pillar, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to creativity, luxury, and environmental responsibility.
With The Swift Ascendant, Martell and Pernod Ricard Nigeria are championing a new era of artistic storytelling — one where innovation shapes legacy, and where bold expression becomes part of the cultural fabric.