About FreeWheeling

FreeWheeling

The Allure of the Automobile in Contemporary Art

The Bascom's major exhibitions highlight the work of the artists who live and work in our region, Bascom instructors and students, Artist Fellows and Residents, as well as world-renowned artists whose work might not otherwise be seen in this region. The Bascom's three galleries and the Winkler Sculpture and Nature Trail are host to approximately 10 exhibitions each year, which pair with our Education programs to attract 25,000 visitors to The Bascom.

FreeWheeling: The Allure of the Automobile in Contemporary Art May 11 - August 21, 2021

This special exhibition is presented in partnership with Highlands Motoring Festival in the Bascom’s Bunzl Gallery. FreeWheeling: The Allure of the Automobile in Contemporary Art, features works of renowned international automotive artists, including canvas, paper, and sculpture. Additionally, there will be a rotating display of extremely rare and special automobiles in the Gallery that are a testament to the concept of the automobile itself as art.

This multi-tiered experience, curated by artist and architect Knight Martorell, is presented in the appreciation of art and the automobile. It examines design as art, the inherent duality of functional art, the allure of the automobile as art itself inspiring expression in another artform, and the dialogue between inspiration and expression.

The Bascom would like to thank the Highlands Motoring Festival leadership, including Mark Chmar, Steve Ham, and Knight Martorell. Months of collaborative planning were necessary to coordinate this exciting visual arts experience.

Without the automobile expertise of the Highlands Motoring Festival, the artwork and impressive automobiles presented in this exhibition would not be possible.

We would also like to thank The Bascom’s Board of Directors and staff for their work in organizing FreeWheeling. Board leadership including Brad Armstrong, Martha SutherlandWright, and Ansley Tolleson all devoted a tremendous amount of time and expertise to this exciting collaboration. Bascom staff members Zach Rogers (Exhibitions Manager), Kate Bruno (Director of Marketing), and Billy Love (Creative Director) worked diligently to coordinate exhibition logistics, and marketing.