The Petersen Launches “Cars are Beautiful: Mr Brainwash at the Petersen”

The Petersen Automotive Museum has teamed up with contemporary artist Mr Brainwash to launch its final exhibit of the year: “Cars Are Beautiful: Mr Brainwash @ the Petersen.” This engaging installation transforms the gallery into a whimsical celebration of the automobile.

The exhibit opens to the public on November 23 in the Armand Hammer Foundation Gallery. It will celebrate the work of Los Angeles-based artist Thierry Guetta, better known by his art moniker Mr Brainwash, who he has been active in the street and contemporary art scenes for two decades.

The display will focus on the automobile as a subject of contemporary art, highlighting the car as a symbol of American life and a machine that ignites the imagination, including art-inspired vehicles and specially created pieces.

“The Petersen Automotive Museum is a place that I hold deep in my heart. When I was a kid I explored the Petersen myself and I never imagined that I would be able to do an entire exhibit here,” said Mr Brainwash. “My goal was to create something contemporary, artistic, and enjoyable for all ages. I feel honored to be part of the history of one of the world’s best automotive museums.”

Mr Brainwash’s style incorporates a sense of playfulness and wonder across a variety of mediums, including murals, printmaking, stenciling, painting and sculpture. He rose to fame following his successful 2008 solo exhibition “Life is Beautiful” and his appearance in the critically acclaimed documentary “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” directed by Banksy.

“This is the final exhibit opening of our 30th-anniversary celebration in 2024, and it’s a wonderfully eye-catching and inspiring exhibit that we hope will delight our guests,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “Mr Brainwash’s work transforms automobiles beyond a means of transportation into inspiring and thoughtful works of art.”

“Cars Are Beautiful: Mr Brainwash @ the Petersen” will be displayed until 2026.

Learn more here.