BREAKING: A highly sought-after 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2, once owned by legendary designer Raymond Loewy, is now on display at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). This remarkable vehicle showcases extraordinary design and supercharged performance, making it a must-see for car enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
The Avanti, featuring a powerful 289-cubic-inch V-8 engine, was part of a special exhibition coinciding with the museum’s opening of the David Geffen Galleries in April 2024. Known for its striking styling and innovative engineering, this model is a testament to Loewy’s influence on mid-20th century design.
Officials at LACMA confirmed that the Avanti has undergone a meticulous restoration, bringing it back to its original splendor. The vehicle is not just a piece of automotive history; it represents a significant intersection of industrial design and automotive culture in Southern California. Curator Bobbye Tigerman stated, “This exhibition explores the automobile through various artistic lenses, making the Avanti the perfect centerpiece.”
Loewy, born in France in 1893, was pivotal in designing iconic products, from the Shell logo to the Coca-Cola bottle. His collaboration with Studebaker during a tumultuous time for the company led to the creation of the Avanti, which was initially intended to be a flagship model. The car’s design was sketched on a napkin, resulting in a vehicle that would become one of the fastest production cars in the world.
The Avanti R2 on display is one of only two personal models owned by Loewy. This particular vehicle boasts a unique three-tone paint finish and custom features that reflect Loewy’s passion for both aesthetics and performance. It’s equipped with cable-operated exhaust cutouts, enhancing its appeal as both a work of art and a high-performance machine.
For those visiting LACMA, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to see the intersection of automotive innovation and fine art. The museum is located just a five-minute walk from the Petersen Automotive Museum, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in California’s rich car culture.
As the exhibit opens, car enthusiasts and art aficionados alike are encouraged to experience this unique presentation. The Studebaker Avanti R2 is more than just a vehicle; it’s a piece of history and design excellence, embodying the spirit of an era marked by creativity and innovation.
Stay tuned for more updates as LACMA prepares for the grand unveiling of its new galleries. With the spotlight on the Avanti R2, this event is set to attract significant attention from both the art and automotive communities. Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary piece of history in person!
