Nashville’s Sensuous Steel Art Deco Automobiles

There are many reasons to fall in love with Nashville. One such reason includes the phenomenal art exhibitions that pass through the state’s capital. This summer, The Frist Center for the Visual Arts welcomed swanky hot-rods from a bygone era. Inspired by the art deco building that houses it, the exhibition displays the most spectacular vehicles from the 1930′s and 1940′s. Harking back to a time when elegance reigned, efficiency and economy never entering the picture, these ostentatious works of art encapsulate an opulent moment in history. Organized by guest curator Ken Gross, the exhibit was nothing less than breathtaking. As quoted in The Wall Street Journal, These are some of the most indispensable cars in automotive history, all in one place… ”

Not one to miss a cultural opportunity, or a really good costume party, the hub and I decided to view the Sensuous Steel exhibit during The Art Deco Affair, a cocktail soiree filled with flappers and dapper gents swinging to live big band music. It was a scream! (Am I getting that time-appropriate expression right?)

Alan admiring the fine details.

The first mini-van?

It seemed fitting, maybe coincidental, that everyone’s been in the roaring 20′s mood lately, especially with the release of the new Gatsby film this summer.

Me and the hubs at a completely unrelated event- same concept. Yes, that’s a wig. And the cig-stick, a prop.

A good friend’s Roaring 20′s birthday party

The Frist Center was the perfect venue for the event. Opened in 1934 as Nashville’s main post office, the “New Deal” federal style building demonstrated the government’s omnipotent attitude with it’s stately, stern and modernist architecture.

Photo credit: Gotsaga

Photo credit: Frist.org

To learn about the history of each of the 18 cars and two motorcycles on display, click here.

The reason I am writing about this exhibit now? It’s the last weekend to view it! The exhibit closes on Sunday, September 15th. So, if you’re in Nashville, get your tickets. If you’re near by, you should get your bottom on over to Music City and to The Frist. I’m not a “car girl,” but I absolutely loved Sensuous Steel!