Discover Aston Martin Vanquish: A Light Sculpture by Anthony James Unveiled in Hollywood
Aston Martin's latest Vanquish-inspired “Reflections of Speed” is a monumental light sculpture by British-American contemporary artist Anthony James. It was unveiled in Hollywood just before Los Angeles' most prestigious art festival, Frieze.
Launched in 2024 as the zenith of Aston Martin’s renowned front-engine sports car range, the Vanquish has been celebrated as a piece of automotive art. It is now the muse for James' 5.4-metre by 2.6-metre immersive sculpture, crafted over 12 months in his LA studio. The sculpture embodies the Vanquish through James' distinctive use of light, alchemy, and contemporary materials. The unmatched British collaboration highlights a dedication to meticulous attention to detail and engineering precision, evident in every element, from the subtlest curve to the most complex feature. The artwork, revealed to an exclusive gathering of Aston Martin’s Californian community and art aficionados, is displayed by the iconic swimming pool at Chateau Marmont, West Hollywood’s most exclusive hotel, during Frieze Los Angeles weekend.
Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer at Aston Martin, commented, "The Vanquish is not just a car—it's a moving sculpture. It epitomises contemporary elegance with its perfectly balanced proportions, muscular build, wide stance, smooth curves, and striking outline. This new Vanquish results from unbridled creativity and human brilliance, shaped to stir emotions and captivate like any true artwork."
Anthony James is known for his unique light sculptures that evoke the infinite cosmos. He employs glass and LED lighting and uses mirrors to create endless reflections. His art, often inspired by the automotive world, reflects a lifelong fascination with the car culture of the 1970s and 1980s.
This project is the latest in Aston Martin's history of partnerships with eminent artists and creatives, such as photographer Rankin and Brazilian pop artist Romero Britto. James' ambitious, technically advanced creation marks a significant milestone in his career, pushing the limits of automotive-inspired art.
Debuted with The Art Newspaper, 'Reflections of Speed' has garnered acclaim from art critics. Benjamin Sutton, Americas Editor of The Art Newspaper, noted, “Aston Martin's integration of art and automotive design is evident as each model begins as a sketch and evolves into a sculpture. Anthony James’ masterpiece perfectly complements Aston Martin’s philosophy of blending artistry with engineering."
As Aston Martin’s most potent flagship in over a century, the Vanquish is a pinnacle of engineering and aesthetic innovation. It offers a timeless blend of classic elegance and modern flair.
After its premiere, the sculpture will be exhibited at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Later this year, it will be sold, with proceeds supporting the museum and the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund.
