In a move that will excite fledgling car designers, the Petersen Automotive Museum and Yellowbrick have teamed up to launch an online automotive design course - and it's completely free.
Eager scholars of "Auto design & Sketching" will gain access to the teachings of legendary designers, such as the award-winning Ralph Gilles, Tesla's Franz von Holzhausen, Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell, and more.
"We designed this course to simplify and illuminate a path to a career in automotive design. High-level training in this field isn't always easily accessible, but we've removed some of those barriers by offering the program at no cost and involving an esteemed lineup of contributors," said Yellowbrick's Justin Wolske.
Scholars can work through at their own pace and savor the three modules: Design Principles & History, Famous Case Studies and Let's Draw.
In the first module, students will study the history of the automobile itself and look at design trends through the decades. The key concepts in this block center around core design principles and the necessary skills required, but also ideas like sustainability.
The second module looks at iconic vehicle designs from the past, with the esteemed styling gurus sharing their thoughts on the more recent Tesla Model S to the iconic but ill-fated Delorean DMC-12. Other vehicles include the Lamborghini Gallardo (A Supercar for the Masses) and the 2005 Ford Shelby Mustang (Updating the Past).
The final module will see students working with Professor Roman Yneges from ArtCenter, who will share the core skills required to sketch auto designs. Key concepts include drawing classic and modern cars, perspective-based sketching, and circles and ellipses.
If you're interested, the first module is already available, with the second and third modules lined up for December and January, respectively. Registering should prove easy, as hopeful designers need only provide an email address. Unfortunately, you must be at least 13 years of age to participate.
The Petersen Museum has been rather busy of late and recently opened its doors for the Tesla Exhibition. It's a must-see for any gearhead or Tesla fan. It beautifully illustrates the company's history through a series of brilliant displays.