MoMA's 'Ten Automobiles' Exhibition: A Glimpse into the Future of Car Design in the 1950s

The Cars That Shaped Our Culture: A Look Back at MoMA’s 1953 Exhibition Ten Automobiles

In a world where cars are more than just modes of transportation, it’s fascinating to explore how they’ve influenced our culture. One such instance is the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City’s 1953 exhibition “Ten Automobiles.” This groundbreaking show featured some of the most iconic and innovative car designs from around the world.

Among these was the Studebaker Commander Starliner Coupe, a sleek and stylish ride that caught everyone’s attention. According to Witold Rybezynski, it was European designers who would later adapt this knife-edge aesthetic in their own work - including Citroën’s revolutionary DS model just two years later.

The 1950s were an exciting time for the automotive industry, with new technologies and design philosophies emerging left and right. The Starliner Coupe, with its swooping lines and futuristic vibe, was a perfect representation of this era’s enthusiasm for innovation.

Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that cars continue to play a significant role in shaping our culture. From the sleek designs of modern supercars to the eco-friendly electric vehicles on the horizon, there’s no denying the impact these machines have had - and will continue to have - on our daily lives.

As we look back at MoMA’s 1953 exhibition “Ten Automobiles,” it’s striking how many parallels can be drawn between then and now. The same passion for innovation, the same desire to push boundaries, and the same love of beautiful design that drove those early car enthusiasts are still with us today.

So next time you’re cruising down the highway in your trusty ride or admiring a sleek supercar at a showroom, remember: cars aren’t just modes of transportation - they’re also reflections of our culture’s values, aspirations, and creativity.