Andy Warhol was a prolific film director, producer, and photographer, but he is best known for being the father of pop art with artworks depicting Marilyn Monroe and Campbell's Tomato Soup. But there are several connections between Warhol and the automotive industry. And from 23 July, you'll be able to see the cars that inspired Warhol.
His most famous automotive works came from a partnership with Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1986 and commissioned Warhol to create 80 pieces of art out of 20 different models from its long history. Unfortunately, Warhol died before completing the project, which was known as "Cars." At the time of his death, he had completed 36 screen prints and 13 drawings.
Brabus recently discovered the Gullwing Warhol used as inspiration and restored it to factory condition. Given his attraction to Mercs with gullwing doors, he would have likely had an SLS if he were still alive today.
The Peterson will host Andy Warhol: Cars - Works from the Mercedes-Benz Art Collection starting July 23 and it will showcase five of the eight Mercs ultimately depicted in Warhol's final commission.
The collection includes the 1937 W 125 F1 car, featuring a supercharged eight-cylinder producing 637 horsepower. The famous 1970 C111-II experimental vehicle will also be in attendance. Both cars are on special loan from the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Germany.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is sending a 1954 W 196 F1 car driven by Fangio and Moss. Warhol's painting of this car was sold at an auction for more than most iconic Mercs go for these days. It is way less than the $142 million spent on an Uhlenhaut Coupe recently.
These cars will be joined by 40 original Warhol pieces from the "Cars" collection. All are on loan from the Mercedes-Benz Art Collection.
"Andy Warhol was an iconic and influential figure that pioneered Pop art and culture," said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. "Not many have seen his automotive works, so we are excited to display them to the public alongside the unique vehicles that inspired his creative visions. It is an exclusive exhibit that appeals to both admirers of fine art and amazing automobiles."
Warhol's own 1974 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow will also be on display. In true Rolls-Royce fashion, Warhol never drove the car himself. Warhol never bothered getting a license and had his friends drive him around whenever they visited.
His long list of famous chauffeurs includes Mick Jagger, Imelda Marcos, and Liza Minnelli.