URGENT UPDATE: The iconic 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2, once owned by renowned designer Raymond Loewy, is now on display at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). This freshly restored automotive masterpiece showcases cutting-edge design and performance, making it a must-see for art and car enthusiasts alike.
Currently, the Avanti is part of LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, which will officially open in April 2024. The museum has owned this unique vehicle for over a decade, but recent restoration efforts have revived its stunning features, including a powerful 289-cubic-inch V-8 engine and a striking three-tone paint job.
With its otherworldly styling and supercharged capabilities, the Avanti was a groundbreaking vehicle that emerged during a tumultuous time for Studebaker. As the company faced financial challenges, Loewy’s visionary design transformed the Avanti into the fastest production car of its era, claiming a record speed of 170 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Under the leadership of businessman Sherwood Egbert, the car was developed in just 40 days, showcasing the bold innovation of the 1960s.
Curator Bobbye Tigerman emphasized the significance of showcasing the Avanti within LACMA’s car culture gallery, stating, “It is looking at the automobile… through the lens of many different media.” This exhibition aligns with LACMA’s mission to treat all objects as equal art forms, positioning the Avanti alongside renowned works by artists like Magritte and Picasso.
The Avanti R2 on display is one of only two personally owned by Loewy. It features custom modifications, including cable-operated exhaust cutouts, reflecting Loewy’s passion for aesthetics and performance. As visitors flock to LACMA, they will witness how this car transcends traditional automotive design, embodying the intersection of art and engineering.
Car lovers and art aficionados should not miss this unique opportunity. LACMA is just a five-minute walk from the Petersen Automotive Museum, making it an ideal stop for those exploring California’s vibrant car culture.
As the world continues to evolve, the legacy of Raymond Loewy and the artistry of the Studebaker Avanti remain as relevant today as ever. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exceptional piece of automotive history at LACMA—where art and innovation collide.
