Automotive Artwork

Exposure
Many automotive artists build their reputations by having a specific piece selected, or commissioned, to celebrate and/or mark a special anniversary or marque's history. Lucky is the art aficionado who can find the artist at a studio, gallery or automotive function who will sign his or her work following its purchase. A personal greeting or message is typically avoided—not by disrespect but by keeping the original integrity—as the signature and those of drivers represented within the artwork is so highly valued.


In fact, some artists focus on tribute pieces, documenting in their own style a significant race, racecar or individual achievement, and then seek out and acquire the autographs of the featured participants—drivers, designers, builders, owners, actors, sponsors, magicians, dragon slayers. These compilations fetch significant prices and only increase in value and appreciation by their buyers/owners, particularly as the signers of these wonderful artworks move on to that great road course (or oval or drag strip) in the sky.

Self-Awareness
While some artists are equally talented in the realm of marketing and self-promotion, not all are as qualified. Nowhere is it written that the definition of an artist includes skills in taxation and public relations, for example. Thus, the role of agent, artist representative, patron, among others, is taken on by experienced individuals or organizations to better present the artist and garner additional exposure (and sales) for his or her work. Among the more notables include Robert Larivee, Sr., whose Group Promotions' Hot Rod Heritage and other entities sell some artists' work at the SEMA Show, among other sites, as well as Steve Austin's Automobilia, Car Art and racingpilot.com (a.k.a. Classic Impressions).


Artists and marketing agents/businesses alike target specific automotive events that typically appeal to high income, sophisticated, and partisan, crowds—Concorso Italiano, Monterey Historics, Pebble Beach, Detroit's Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance, Amelia (FL) Island Concours and Scottsdale's Barrett-Jackson Auction are among the most popular locations where artwork can be showcased, appreciated and ultimately, purchased.


In addition, one organization that also works to support and help promote automotive artists is AFAS, the Automotive Fine Arts Society. AFAS is composed of a small group of painters and sculptors who are auto enthusiasts themselves. The members of the Society exhibit, promote and publicize their work "raising the standards of automotive art and exchanging ideas while building fellowship among fine artists and enthusiasts." The common thread for all is of course the unequivocal love of the automobile. That devotion is felt throughout the automotive industry as several car companies currently sponsor exhibits of the AFAS membership at Pebble Beach and the Amelia Island Concours.