UPDATE: A rare 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 extraordinary vehicle showcases a unique blend of art and engineering, featuring a supercharged 289-cubic-inch V-8 engine and stunning design that captures the essence of midcentury innovation.
The freshly restored Avanti is part of LACMA’s new exhibition, highlighting California’s vibrant car culture, which opens alongside the highly anticipated David Geffen Galleries on April 15, 2025. Curator Bobbye Tigerman emphasized the significance of this automobile within the context of art, stating, “It is looking at the automobile, and particularly the automobile in Southern California, through the lens of many different media.”
This Avanti R2 is not just any car; it is one of only two owned by Loewy, who is credited for iconic designs like the Shell logo and the Coca-Cola bottle. The vehicle features a unique three-tone paint job and customizations that reflect Loewy’s artistic vision, making it a standout piece at the museum.
The Studebaker Avanti emerged during a challenging time for the automaker, which was shifting focus from cars to trucks. Under the direction of businessman Sherwood Egbert, Loewy was commissioned to create a flagship vehicle that would defy expectations. The Avanti debuted in 1962 and quickly gained fame as the fastest production car in the world, even setting speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Visitors to LACMA can marvel at this unique piece of automotive history, which has been meticulously restored to its original glory. The museum’s innovative approach to art displays ensures that the Avanti is showcased alongside renowned artworks by Magritte and Picasso, challenging traditional perceptions of automotive design.
As car enthusiasts and art lovers flock to LACMA, the Avanti serves as a testament to the intersection of art and engineering. Those planning to visit the nearby Petersen Automotive Museum are encouraged to stop by LACMA to experience this extraordinary vehicle firsthand.
Don’t miss the chance to see this exceptional Studebaker Avanti R2, a true masterpiece that merges creativity and performance, redefining what it means to be an art object in a museum setting.
