Supercharged 1963 Studebaker Avanti by Raymond Loewy Now on Display

URGENT UPDATE: A stunning 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2, once owned by renowned designer Raymond Loewy, is now on public display at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The exhibit, featuring this iconic vehicle, highlights Loewy’s influential design work and its significant role in automotive history.

The Avanti, known for its striking aesthetics and supercharged V-8 power, represents a pivotal moment in midcentury automotive design. Loewy, whose legacy includes iconic brands like Shell and Coca-Cola, transformed the Avanti into a car that embodies both art and engineering excellence. This meticulously restored vehicle is part of LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, which opens this April, showcasing the intersection of car culture and fine art.

Why This Matters NOW: Car enthusiasts and art lovers alike are encouraged to visit this unique exhibit, as it underscores California’s pivotal role in shaping automotive culture. Curator Bobbye Tigerman stated, “We thought this would be the perfect opportunity to show our Studebaker Avanti,” emphasizing its artistic significance. The exhibit intends to present automobiles through various artistic lenses, making it a must-see for those visiting Los Angeles.

The Avanti was developed during a tumultuous time for Studebaker, which was considering exiting the car manufacturing business. Under Sherwood Egbert’s leadership, Loewy was commissioned to create a flagship automobile that would redefine the brand. The Avanti debuted in 1962, boasting a 289-cubic-inch V-8 engine and a fiberglass body, positioning it as one of the fastest production cars of its time.

With only two Avantis personally owned by Loewy, the R2 on display features custom modifications, including a unique three-tone paint job and aluminum accents, highlighting Loewy’s commitment to speed and style. Recently restored, this vehicle now shines in its original glory, with features that reflect Loewy’s design philosophy.

As LACMA prepares to unveil this exhibit, visitors are reminded that it lies just a five-minute walk from the Petersen Automotive Museum, making it a perfect addition to any automotive tour of the city. The museum’s approach of presenting art on a single level seeks to elevate the automobile to the same status as traditional artworks, fostering an appreciation for its cultural relevance.

This exhibit is not just about a car; it’s a celebration of innovation, design, and the enduring impact of Loewy’s work. The Studebaker Avanti R2 stands as a testament to the creativity of a bygone era, inviting audiences to engage with automotive history in a new light.

What’s Next: As the opening of the David Geffen Galleries approaches, expect more details on other exhibits that will explore the relationship between art and car culture. This event is set to be one of the highlights of the Los Angeles art scene in 2023, drawing attention from both local and international visitors.

Don’t miss your chance to see this piece of automotive art that is as much a part of American history as the Mona Lisa is to art history.