The Saint Louis Art Museum proudly presents “Roaring: Art, Fashion, and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939,” a captivating exhibition that delves into the transformative role of the automobile in France before the Second World War. This unique showcase, opening on April 11 and running through July 27, runs through a period that recognized the automobile not just as a means of transport but as a profound influencer of contemporary culture, encompassing art, fashion, and design.
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A Canvas of Innovation
During the early 20th century, France was a magnet for global visionaries, offering abundant creative and economic opportunities. The post-World War I era saw automobiles transition from purely engineering marvels to symbols of luxury and artistic expression. French designers, artists, and craftspeople began experimenting with automotive design, incorporating luxurious materials and advanced techniques. This blend of craftsmanship and technology is vividly displayed in the exhibition through an array of media, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, and films, alongside actual historic vehicles.
Fashion Meets Functionality
The exhibition reveals how automobiles influenced technological advancements and the fashion industry. As cars became more common and comfortable, fashion adapted, with motoring necessitating stylish yet functional attire. The exhibit features elegant displays of 1930s French fashion, where streamlined designs mirrored the aerodynamic lines of contemporary vehicles, highlighting a period when driving became synonymous with style.
Artistic and Social Revolution
“Roaring” also reflects on the social changes of the era. The burgeoning automobile industry played a crucial role in the labor movement, contributing to significant societal shifts like paid vacations for workers. This social backdrop is essential to understanding how the car became embedded in the cultural fabric of France, influencing and being influenced by the artistic community.
A Broad Spectrum of Artistry
This exhibition is divided into six thematic sections and features over 160 works. These pieces are major loans from prestigious institutions and private collections across Europe and North America, meticulously curated to represent the era comprehensively. “Roaring” is about celebrating these artistic and technological marvels and understanding the context that made such innovations possible.
Expert Curation and Generous Support Genevieve Cortinovis, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Associate Curator of Decorative Arts and Design, thoughtfully curated the exhibition with assistance from Sarah Berg and automobile curation by Ken Gross. It is supported by the Enterprise Mobility Foundation™, Barbara and Andy Taylor, and other notable contributors. A 210-page catalog with insights from seven authors complements the visual experience, providing deeper understanding and appreciation.
“Roaring: Art, Fashion, and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939” at the Saint Louis Art Museum is a testament to the era’s innovative spirit and a must-visit for anyone interested in the golden age of French automotive design and the interplay of technology, art, and fashion that defines modernism. This exhibition not only showcases historical artifacts but also ignites a conversation about the cultural dynamics of the past, which continue to influence our aesthetic and technological preferences today.
