The Los Angeles Auto Show is making a significant impact by bringing art to the forefront. This collaborative effort between Cart Department and the renowned West Coast Customs showcases 10 artist-designed vehicles from leading creatives in fine art and culture. One of the standout exhibits is a 1983 Buick handpainted by Keith Haring, while Virgil Abloh's Project Geländewagen also catches the eye. Additionally, West Coast Customs' AMG Mercedes customized for Don Toliver and the Tesla concept refashioned for Wil.i.am complete the dream lineup.

Uniting Art and Automobiles at L.A.'s Auto Show

Cart Department: Bridging Art and Car Culture

Cart Department, a relatively new force in the automotive world, embarked on a mission to celebrate the convergence of art and traditional car culture. Through various content, collaborations, and events, they have been able to make a mark. Their partnership with West Coast Customs has allowed them to combine the deftness of a digital upstart with the deep knowledge of an established player, quickly building awareness for their endeavors.This is not just a one-time show but a part of a decades-long history. For nearly 50 years, BMW has been commissioning top artists to use its cars as a canvas for their work. Artists like Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Jenny Holzer, Robert Rauschenberg, and most recently, Julie Mehretu, have left their mark. In 2017, Rolls-Royce also started exploring its connection to art with the launch of Phantom Gallery, allowing for an immersive art display within its Phantom interiors.The LA Auto Show, which runs now through December 1, is a platform that showcases the beauty and creativity that emerges when art and automobiles come together. It offers a unique opportunity for future generations to understand and appreciate our current culture through these remarkable art cars.

West Coast Customs: Premier Car Customization Shop

West Coast Customs has spent over 30 years building its reputation as one of the premier car customization shops in the world. Their expertise is evident in the customized vehicles they have created for this show. From the AMG Mercedes customized for Don Toliver to the Tesla concept refashioned for Wil.i.am, each vehicle tells a story and showcases their ability to transform ordinary cars into extraordinary works of art.Their attention to detail and commitment to quality make them stand out in the industry. They understand the importance of blending art with functionality, creating vehicles that are not only visually stunning but also perform at a high level. This show is a testament to their skills and their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the automotive world.

The Significance of Art Cars

The Art Car Series represents a vital new genre of art that bridges the gap between art and popular culture. One of the most compelling aspects of these art cars is their capacity for storytelling. As Larry Warsh, founder of Cart Department, stated, "This presentation sets the stage for the cars as a time capsule for future generations to understand and appreciate our current culture."These art cars allow artists to express their creativity in a unique way and reach a wider audience. They break down the barriers between different forms of art and popular culture, creating a dialogue that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The LA Auto Show provides a platform for these art cars to shine and for people to appreciate the beauty and innovation that they represent.