The intersection of great design and industrial production can indeed create a work of art, as seen in the case of Raymond Loewy's Studebaker Avanti. This iconic car is not only a testament to Loewy's prolific work but also a reflection of his ability to merge style with California culture.
Loewy's involvement with Studebaker began when he was commissioned to design a new flagship automobile for the company, which would be styled in California rather than Indiana. The result was the Avanti, a car that landed in 1962 and packed a powerful V-8 engine under its fiberglass body.
The Avanti came in several variants, with the R3 being the most high-performance of them all. This variant boasted a bored-out engine and supercharger, making it capable of producing over 300 horsepower and setting a speed record of 170 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Loewy's personal touch can be seen in LACMA's 1963 R2 Avanti, which was customized by him in-period using a French coachbuilder. The car features a subtle three-tone paint effect, aluminum accents, and plaques noting Loewy's involvement and the speed records set by the vehicle.
The exhibition at LACMA will highlight California's contribution to car culture, with the Studebaker Avanti at its center. This unique approach to showcasing automotive art is reflective of the museum's commitment to presenting each object equally, regardless of its cultural origin or value.
LACMA's decision to display the Avanti alongside other notable artworks, such as those by Magritte and Picasso, underscores the importance of considering the automobile as a work of art. By placing it on the same level as these masterpieces, the museum is challenging our perceptions of what constitutes 'art' in the automotive world.
The Studebaker Avanti's story serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely creations can become iconic works of design. The car's history, from its conception to its current display at LACMA, is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.
As we gaze upon the Studebaker Avanti, it is easy to forget that this was once just a modified Studebaker Lark with a powerful engine and fiberglass body. Instead, we see a masterpiece of design that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
The exhibition at LACMA will undoubtedly spark conversations about the intersection of humanity and machinery, as embodied by the Studebaker Avanti's unique blend of style, performance, and cultural significance.
