The Automobile and American Art
SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM (SAAM)
SCOPE OF WORK
SIE worked with SAAM to develop, design, fabricate, and install a display of more than 100
model cars donated by collector Albert H. Small. The display provides a unique lens through
which to explore SAAM’s collection and the role of the automobile in American art. SIE also
assisted with content development for an accompanying digital interactive.
Read more about the project on our blog here:
https://exhibits.si.edu/small-cars-big-ideas/
Gallery plan
Graphic elevations
A design rendering of the installation
Albert H. Small’s collection of more than 1,200 model cars features everything from a Model T Ford to a pink Cadillac.
Graphics: The installation features images of artists and their cars.
Final design layout of the large back-lit artifact case
SIE designed a large back-lit display case with room for 112 model cars. An additional case brings the total up to 133. That’s a lot of cars!
A close-up view of the model cars
A splash of color souped up the space to make it more inviting for visitors. Installation of three-dimensional letters for a wall quote on the opposite side of the hallway.