Classic Car Fine Art: Not Just Another Pretty Car
January 29, 2008
In the musty halls of Fine Art and the critics, gallery owners and collectors who walk them, there can often be felt a barely disguised disdain for the art of the classic automobile.
Within the large population of Automotive Artists, especially in North America and Britain, it has been difficult to find acceptance by the mainstream art community. Perhaps many of the artists involved create illustrative portraits of cars in styles that support auto racing fan merchandize more than what is considered fine art. Some fit more easily into the areas of recreation, muscle car, motor sport, NASCAR racing, or other thematic visual art. As such, these gifted stylists and their work are considered commercial offshoots of these areas. But there are many other automotive artists who’s work stands equal with any traditional fine art. The only thing that marks this art apart is its subject matter — one of the most ubiquitous and powerful icons of our society — the classic automobile.
Artists such as Andy Warhol, Don Jacot and Audrey Flack have been able to immortalize common mass produced items of popular culture with resulting critical success. Artist Robert Bechtle placed cars within the context of street scenes reminiscent of family snapshots and as such, made a statement about society that included the auto but moved beyond it. The automobile was included in many of his paintings as an important piece of Americana.
There are many automotive artists, who like Robert Bechtle, have taken the image further than an illustrative depiction of the car in its perfect ‘still life’ state. These artists deserve to be recognized for crossing the line, as it were, between niche art and fine art.
Paris based artist Malquito uses his website’s virtual gallery to show his automotive images hanging over a couch, as if to say “this too can hang in your living room, not your rec room or garage.” Artists Nicola Wood and David Snyder portray classic cars in scenes rich with color and design, comparable to any contemporary art today. John Salt’s run down cars nestle amongst the rich textures of urban strafed buildings. Margie Guyot’s impressionist paintings just happen to feature the automobile, a common item that would most likely not have been removed from the painted scenes of Claude Monet or Pissarro, had cars existed in their time.
The automobile as part of society is as viable a subject for art today as were the religious symbols and icons in the 13th century or hunting scenes and sailing ships in the 19th century. Art has historically catered to its clients; once the church, later high society, monarchs and noblemen; today, the common man. Auto buyers come from a wide socio-economic demographic which marks cars from all eras as a cross section indicator of societal tastes. The classic automobile has a viable right to commemoration as a major example of historic style and design, arguably as much as the architecture of any era.
It has long been a central role of artists to articulate contemporary lifestyles and express the effects of society and everyday surroundings upon the mind of man. Our society enjoys a love-hate relationship with the car. The cars of the 50’s and 60’s represent perhaps the apex of North America’s love affair with the personal machine that gave both men and women equal access to freedom, travel and the ability to expand their horizons. It is also the grand polluter of our time and these behemoths of yesteryear the worst offenders. The classic auto is strongly symbolic of the opposing emotions and attitudes of their eras and the current era. And as such, it is a tremendously powerful subject for fine art.
Virginia Ivanicki’s art can be viewed at: http://www.ivanicki.com Vancouver artist Virginia Ivanicki is an Automotive and Aviation artist with a difference. Her oil paintings combine a high degree of technical excellence and realism with a unique style that borders on the surreal. She has been a professional artist for over thirty years, showing her work at galleries across Canada and in the United States.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Virginia_Ivanicki
Classic Cars - Get Insured
January 29, 2008
Antique car collection remains a popular hobby for a lot of people. Enthusiasts will invest a lot of time and money in buying, repairing and eventually showing classic vehicles.
The idea of fixing up an old banger and restoring it to its former glory can be a rewarding experience.
But before you can take it out on the road once more there is the issue of car insurance to deal with. Older vehicles may be considered to be a higher risk for some companies due to their age.
As parts for some vehicles would be considered something of a rarity it could mean a higher premium to pay.
However there are companies which offer cheap car insurance for specialised vehicles such as antique cars. Even if your vehicle is used only occasionally, be it for shows or car club meets, you need to ensure that you have a policy in place should accidental damage occur.
Some of the more well known insurance companies will offer policies for antique cars, but there are also a growing number of independent insurance companies that cater especially for vintage vehicles.
Purchasing insurance for your vintage vehicle through a well-established commercial insurance company may help bring peace of mind, whilst also allowing you the opportunity to insure your everyday vehicle with the same company.
If you are the owner of a classic or antique car, it is worth shopping round for a car insurance quote. Be sure to have all the details of your vehicle available so a policy can be tailored to suit your needs.
If you’re looking to insure through an independent, more specialised company, be sure to ensure that they are reputable and well established, and would be able to pay out in the event that you claim.
Compare from a wide range of motor insurers to find a car insurance quote that suits you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Collins
Why Classic Car Transport Is Different To Normal Auto Transport
January 29, 2008
When a car is a classic, it’s not just a car anymore; it’s a thing of beauty. When a classic car needs transporting, the discerning owner is going to be looking for more than a quick way from point a to point b. Some things to consider before beginning the classic car transport are the state of the vehicle, where it is going, how much is it going to cost and what are best benefits.
Since many collectors purchase classic cars in varying states of repair, it’s worth noting whether the car you want to transport has been in storage for a long time. If you can’t start it or drive it, some transporters won’t touch it.
Many transporters require the vehicle to be driven up ramps to be loaded and do not have a way to tow it into place. If it’s possible have a mechanic check fluids, refill the gas tank and charge the battery, a car that runs, even slowly will have more options in transporters.
The choice of whether to transport your classic car should also include the method of transport. A car that is in premium condition with no dents, dings or scratches, may require enclosed transport. Not only does enclosed transport protect the vehicle from road debris, weather and exhaust, but it also provides more security as the driver may overnight in some locations.
If your classic is one you’ve purchased to refurbish or already has nicks and scratches, then the alternative transport in the open air will run to less cost for you.
Some transporters will not travel well away from main business centers to pick up cars, so it may be necessary to drop the car off at a depot. Some transporters employ local contractors to pick up the vehicles from these locations and take them to the depots as needed. Be sure to ask about that service if you will require it.
Also verify what the insurance coverage of the transporter applies to. Whenever a transporter takes possession of a vehicle there will be an “Origin Inspection Report” generated. This is your testament to the condition of the car when it was turned over for transportation. Be sure to inspect it closely upon arrival at the destination point.
In many cases, transporters only require a couple weeks notice that you are looking for shipment of you car. Depending on the grade of service you want for your classic, the transporter can then make arrangements.
It is normal for transporters to give shipment windows rather than exact dates for pick up or arrival, however, if one does give you exact dates make sure that you have it in writing.
Always review the transporters records, offers and what guarantees they offer. If something seems unclear or uneasy about their business practices, then definitely don’t entrust them with your vehicle.
Make sure to go over your transportation contract carefully, especially if you are shipping a classic car in pristine condition. There are any numbers of larger and smaller transportation companies that specialize in transportation of these beauties.
Ultimately, everyone wants to get from his or her origin to the destination point. With a little judicious review and good questioning, you can find the transporter for your classic car that matches your needs, your wants and your budget.
Discover vital information and advice about car and auto transport services. Find out what you must do, and what you must not do. Click http://www.auto-transport-101.com/classic-car-transport.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Telford_II
What Makes A Classic Car
January 29, 2008
Those cars that are universally accepted classics such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, and most of the other exotics autos. So what’s going to be the classic car of tomorrow? In the past the Chevrolets, Fords, Buicks, and Plymouths of 30-40 years ago were not meant to become future classics, but some of them have actually earned a spot among the Ferraris and Aston Martins at shows and classic car auctions around the world. Will any of the less collectable cars of the 1980s and 1990s make it?
There are so many different definitions of what a classic car is. Some would put specific age limits on the definitions, and others would say that only special variants would qualify for classic status.A classic car is one that stops depreciating in value and either levels off or begins to appreciate over time. The value increasing because of demand ties into the definition that the classic cars have appeal long after they are no longer produced. The goal is to catch these cars when they are at the bottom, before they become more valuable. Of course, values do vary from year to year, so like any potential investment there are risks.
Anyway, here is a list of what we would qualify as potential future classics: BMW 3-Series (E30 1984-1991), Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird, Chevrolet Impala SS (1994-1996), Chrysler Shelby K-Cars (Omni GLH, etc), Ford Mustang,Ford Fairmont GM A-Bodies (RWD models, such as the El Camino and Malibu), Mitsubishi Galant VR-4,Mitsubish Starion, Mitsubish 3000GT VR-4 (and cousin Stealth R/T), Nissan 240SX (S13 and S14) Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Corolla GT-S(the famous AE86), Toyota MR2, Toyota Supra (last generation), VW GTI (personally the MKI and MKII)
The value of these cars will more than likely stabilize in the next 5 to 10 years. Granted, some of the cars are special variants, and many may fall into obscurity instead of becoming more popular
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dhanya_V.V
Qatar Classic Cars, A Classic Love
January 29, 2008
Classic car lovers in Doha the capital of Qatar are willing to face the bumps to go after their passion. Classic, Antique or some may call vintage cars until very recently appeared to be a territory only the rich royalties and the VIPs are allowed to enter. However, this perception has gradually changed, and now the market holds possibilities for even the enthusiasts that are willing to spare a bit over a hundred-thousand Qatari Riyals the equivalent to twenty-thousands US Dollars. This became possible due to the economic boom the area is witnessing, efficient communications with classic car dealers in Houston, along with the superior supply chain management allowed cars in Houston to be transported at low costs.
It now became possible for a knowledgeable enthusiast, with patience, and time at their disposal to buy classic car in Qatar, or an antique car in Dubai, or even a classic car to be shipped from Houston. It became possible to start the process with the equivalent of three thousand US dollars, or in other words for less than the ca was worth in the seventies or eighties.
This however sometimes holds true, and sometimes does not. For instance, Morris Minors was valued in Dubai and Qatar at about QR 15,000 in the eighties. It is very difficult to sell such a car for QR 10,000 in 2007 according to a car dealer. Cars that were easy on the pocket back in their peaking days are unlikely to hold value over the years. Hence, exceptions always pop up, for instance this fact doesn’t hold true with the iconic mini.
I respect, and always reflect my articles with both mine and the apposing; however I do not see a Qatar classic car dealer’s opinion holding true. He said “The classic car market, if it can be called that, will flourish because people have bought [these cars] for nostalgia and recreation — not for financial gain,” says a dealer in classic cars. “Most people, who have bought a classic car in the last ten years, knew their cars would have seen a rise on the value.” To contradict, According to Classic Car magazine, the US has seen a growth in the market for classic cars, particularly American sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Cars, such as Chevrolet Corvettes and Camaros, Ford Thunderbirds and Pontiacs, are said to have doubled in value over the past three years.
As I have been promising throughout the article series dedicated to Qatar classic car, the research journey has not stopped, rather the more research I make, the more I am interested to learn about the differences in tastes and markets. To get up-to-date research results, visit the section I dedicated to Qatar classic cars
© Copyright - 2007 Khalid R. Mustaffa The owner of cars in Houston The website is dedicated to serve the Houston market needs pertaining to cars in houston
The website provides important information to car buyers and owners around the world. It also serves as Houston used cars classifieds
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Khalid_Mustaffa
Old Classic Cars For Sale
January 29, 2008
I just been recently introduced to classic cars and I have to admit they are slowly growing on me. Although I am yet to buy one I now find myself searching for classic cars for sale online, almost every day now.
It all began a couple of weeks ago when one of my long time buddies, sent me a picture on my msn messenger. I clicked on the link and I ended up on one of the classic car classified sites. I do not remember exactly which website it was but after looking around for a while I was really starting to get excited.
There’s just something about the vintage shapes and designs that make these cars sometimes look even better than the latest Cadillac Escalade. Just a few minutes ago I showed one of my friends a 1959 Chevy Suburban. You have to see this monster of a car, there is still a slight resemblance to the current 2007 models.
Browsing the muscle classic cars for sale section of a popular site you can not help but want to buy, not just one, but all of them. I am noticing a trend of too many Pontiac GTO models being offered for sale. Is this the muscle car of the moment? Maybe, or it’s probably famous because of it’s speed and power, after all most guys like their cars powerful and super fast. When you add the classic edge to it, you definitely have yourself a chick magnet.
If you are the do it yourself kind of guy or maybe you have a lot of time on your hands you might want to check out the project classic cars. Speaking of which I am thinking of maybe getting myself one of those to keep me occupied during the weekends. Come on this is like the grown up car fanatic’s jig saw puzzle, it should be fun looking for the car parts, but probably very stressful at the same time.
Since my ‘day job’ involves designing and setting up websites, my new found fascination of classic cars has led me to develop a classic car classifieds site. Over the next couple of months, I will be developing this site to feature the best deals on old classic cars for sale on the internet.
Are you looking for old classic cars for sale? Check out our classic car classifieds webiste: http://www.a1classiccars.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Munyaradzi_Chinongoza
Classic Car Covers
January 29, 2008
Classic cars are a thing of pride for their owners. They are head turners wherever they go and every year, in countless shows all across the nation and the world, owners display classic cars with pride. A classic car is a testament to the history of the times.
Classic cars require special treatment and care for two reasons. The first and the most obvious is the fact that they are unique and rare and secondly because it is not easy to get them repaired if damage happens to the car. Hence, the importance of classic car covers cannot be stressed enough.
However, it can feel like an exercise in futility to go hunting for a classic car cover. Because the cars have been out of circulation for so long, there is no way that one can get a new, ready-made cover for a classic car. There are two alternatives in such a case; either one can get a used classic car cover, or one can have a cover custom made by someone who makes car covers.
Again it is not easy to find used classic car covers. Often classic car dealers and enthusiasts are a good source of information on where to find classic car covers. Then there are junkyards in almost every city and state. These can be a good source for finding a classic car cover. You just might find a car cover stashed in the trunk of the car. This, however, is rare and you’ll encounter such a thing only if you are extremely lucky.
Thanks to the Internet, it is relatively easier than it use to be for one to find classic car covers. You can search for what you need and chances are that you will find it. Or you will find someone in some forum or group who knows where to find it.
Finally, if all efforts fail, you can use the age old, but expensive method. You can go to someone who makes car covers and have one custom made for your classic car. While doing so, one thing that needs to be kept in mind is to use the best possible material for making the car cover since it is not everyday that someone gets an expensive custom-made car cover for their classic car. It is a good idea to do it perfectly the first time, because of the expense and time involved.
Car Covers provides detailed information on Buy Car Covers, Car Covers, Car Seat Covers, Cheap Car Covers and more. Car Covers is affiliated with Car Care Tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_Riverside
Methods for Finding a Classic Car
January 29, 2008
Local Garages
As is the case with buying a modern car, popping down to your local car garage & dealerships can often be the first point of call.
If it turns out that any local dealer forecourts have models from the 70s or 80s in from time to time then it may be a good idea to let them know your interested an leave your number with them.
Although it may be a bit of a long shot, this could be a good way of being the first to know if something “Fresh to the Market” turns up in your area.
Similar to this route, local MOT garages may also be worth a look. Any antiques passing through may end up not being MOT worthy and are likely to not be of any interest to the current owners, to a collector though; they could be a wise investment.
Again a long shot, but the garage owner may be able to put you in contact with the owners of such cars.
Events & Auctions
As well as being an excellent source for picking up tips and any news on new cars coming to the market, a lot of classic car events also now have a “car mart” section.
This gives owners the opportunity to show off their work an offer them up for sale. The kind of cars on offer will depend heavily on the kind of event, area and weather.
Auctions can be great if you’re looking for a particularly or unusual car, or one in excellent condition. Time should be taken to research any potential buys along with the auction rules before biding though.
It’s also worth noting that such auctions usually move along very quickly so it’s best to go and “sit in” on a few beforehand.
The Internet
The internet has streamlined the way in which enthusiasts can buy & sell classic cars.
Sellers are able to easily set up pages on auctions sites like eBay, which are viewable to the world in minutes.
Also, there are numerous sites on the net aimed specifically at classic car enthusiasts, notably http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/.
Car and Classic brings together countless adverts for models ranging from before the 1920s to cars being released today. There is also a section devoted to past & present motorcycles.
At a glance visitors are able to post free adverts (which include 6 photo’s), find out about up coming events, view current car auctions and post requests within the “wanted” section. There are also extensive links to insurance and car clubs websites.
One of the most useful features of car and classic though, is its powerful search tool, which allows users to find specific cars based on a range of options (make, category, region etc).
This, along with all of the other features on offer, makes Car and Classic a one stop shop for current and classic car enthusiasts alike.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liam_Gerken
Antique Classics - Cars That Last
January 29, 2008
The term Antique Classics is used in reference to old cars. According to Antique Automobile Club of America, an antique car is generally defined as a car over 25 years of age. However, the exact legal definition for the purpose of antique vehicle registration varies widely from State to State.
With about 12 years being the normal design life of modern cars, 25 years is about double and therefore a car that’s reached 25 is a rare survivor, and probably not economic to maintain as regular transportation.
The term Classic Car is often used synonymously with the term Antique car, but the formal definition of that term is restricted to specific high-quality vehicles from the pre-World War II era which began with the Great Depression in 1930 and ended with the recovery after World War II in 1948. The Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) defines the term Classic as a “fine” or “distinctive” automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948. A Classic was high-priced when it was introduced and was built in very limited quantities. Although, by 1930’s most of the manufacturing technologies had already been invented, certain factors like including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car can be considered a Classic.
Some exemplary pre-war Antique Classics are:
1. 1934–1940 Bugatti Type 57. The Type 57SC has become the singular classic car.
2. 1934 Citroën Traction Avant. Has the distinction of being the first mass-produced front-wheel drive car,
3. 1936 MG T series, a sports car meant especially for American soldiers fighting in the war.
4. 1938 Volkswagen Beetle, the most-famous automobile of all times. It was a pre-war design that continues to exist even in the present times.
The CCCA Club keeps a thorough list of the vehicles they consider Classics, and while any member may petition for a vehicle to join the list, such applications are carefully scrutinized and very rarely is a new vehicle type admitted. They also acknowledge the fact that their rather exclusive definition of a classic car is by no means universally followed and hence they generally use terms such as “CCCA Classic” or the trademarked “Full Classic” to avoid confusion.
After 1930 the number of auto manufacturers came down sharply, as the industry consolidated, and developed after the war more advances in engine design were made, like the compression V8 engines and modern bodies from General Motors, Oldsmobile and Cadillac brands.
NamSing Then is a regular article contributor on many topics. Be sure to visit his other websites Antiques Classics, Toys and One Stop Information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=NamSing_Then
Chicago Classic Car Culture
January 29, 2008
Does Chicago have an active car culture? The answer to that question is a resounding “yes!” Anyone who has driven past McCormick place during the annual auto show can vouch for that. Just look around Chicago and you can see the love affair in action. No place is this more evident than in the local cruise nights that pop up in many suburban locations during the summer months. Whether you go there to show a car, see a classic hot rod, or just get out of the house, the Chicago classic cruise nights are some of the best.
During the summer months from dinnertime to dusk on practically every day of the week, you can wander streets from the far northern suburbs to the south side and check out vehicles from the past. Cars of all sizes, ages, and colors will be rolling down “Main Street” in the downtown districts of suburban Chicago.
“These shows are all about community and family” says the creator of a web site that promotes these shows. “People get out with their wife and kids, have an ice cream cone, and swap stories on ideas for next weekend’s garage tinkering project.”
People find out about these local shows from their newspaper, car clubs, and online resources like ChicagoAreaCruiseNight.com Members of such web sites enjoy the online format because it allows them to share photos, chat in the forums, and have a place to share stories when they cannot attend a cruise night. The web format is also popular in that dreaded Chicago winter season when all classic cars stay bundled up in their garages. ChicagoAreaCruiseNight.com has cruise night listings by each day of the week, as well as by suburban location.
While hot rod culture has diminished over time, it has never completely gone away. Groups of grease monkeys and car lovers have always gravitated to the classic American car and everything it stands for.
Today, whether it’s because of an excuse to get the family out of the house, a reason to polish up the old jalopy, or just a love of classic cars, cruise nights are flourishing around Chicago.
For more information or complete Chicago Cruise Night information visit the Chicago Area Cruise Night web site.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Fredricks
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