The number one Frenchman in the world The auto museum opened its newest art exhibit on April 20, highlighting the work of visual artist Keith Collins. Collins, whose work explores automotive, portraiture, music, sports and abstract genres, presents 20 works of art influenced by the Mullin Automotive Museum’s collection.
Called “ArTexture,” the exhibit spotlights fine art tapestries, paintings, and assemblage sculptures alongside the actual vehicles that inspired the pieces. The exhibit includes a painting of Mullin’s 1935 Voisin Type C25 Aerodyne that won “Best of Show” at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, and a painting of Mullin’s 1936 Type 57SC Bugatti Atlantic- marble and a 1934 Voisin-type woodcut. C27 Aerosport.
Primarily known for its excellent selection of classic French cars and Grand Prix racing cars, Mullin also boasts a collection of unique furniture, decorative arts, paintings and photographs, further demonstrating its dedication to the arts.
“This collaboration perfectly illustrates my two passions: fine art and French cars,” said Peter Mullin, founder and CEO of the Mullin Automotive Museum. “I have long admired Keith’s work and am delighted to host his first solo exhibition at the museum.”
The detailed upholstery of the collection’s 1939 Delahaye Type 165 and 1935 Hispano-Suiza J12 Cabriolet are also on display. Both tapestries showcase Collins’ various techniques in capturing color and form.
“My process is similar to putting together a jigsaw puzzle, except I make my own pieces and put them together by hand,” said artist Keith Collins. “I’ve always had a passion for the beauty of the car and it’s an honor to showcase my work alongside the rolling sculptures at Mullin.”
Collins specializes in large-scale fine art tapestries, oil paintings and industrial assemblage sculptures. His works, which explore automotive, portraiture, music, sports and abstract genres, are created through a labor-intensive process that involves layering materials piece by piece by hand or stitching them together with vintage sewing machines. His art hangs in celebrity homes, garages, shops and collections around the world. Awarded for uncompromising craftsmanship and photographic quality, his art must be seen in person to be fully appreciated.
The Mullin Automotive Museum has gained worldwide recognition and was named ‘Museum/Collection of the Year’ at the 2021 Historic Motoring Awards. It is open every Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. To purchase tickets or learn more about Mullin and “ArTexture,” visit www.mullinautomotivemuseum.com.
