The Petersen Automotive Museum Reopens With Driving Force

Photo Credit: Sharon Stone

The Petersen Automotive Museum reopened with driving force to VIPs on Dec. 6 with a grand reopening gala attended by Hollywood’s hautest auto enthusiasts.

Guests such as Sharon Stone, Tim Allen, Lisa Kudrow and Breaking Bad producer Vince Gilligan were among those that were able to check out the museum prior to its official Dec. 7 opening.

The museum has been closed for 15 months of renovation and construction. It now sports an incredible metal-ribbon facade, while the interior includes three automotive-themed floors, History, Industry and Artistry, each showcasing the impact and artistry of the automobile throughout the eras.

The event was meant to showcase the history and future of the museum; it was influenced by both the unique architectural features of the museum’s exciting new building and textural elements of an automobile. Four, 180’ long curved ceiling structures were createdthat mirrored the steel ribbons of the building’s facade. Additionally, the contemporary event design was inspired by elements of the automobile such as mirrors, chrome and glass.

Throughout the evening, RG Live Events presented a visual interpretation of automotive history through an awe-inspiring fusion of live entertainment and 3D projection. In three performance installments throughout the evening, attendees witnessed a visual history of the automobile from various eras as a backdrop for a spectacular live performance. The grand finale was an interactive dance performance incorporating 3D imagery of the birth of the new Petersen Museum.

After making their way into the museum, guests entered a breathtaking tent with totally clear top, filled with chrome decor, mirrored tabletops and live entertainment. Seating was designed using modern chrome dining chairs and mirrored tables provided by Revelry Event Designers. Floral Art LA designed modern tabletop florals that incorporated round spheres and streamlined boxes, a nod to to elements found in the modern automobile.

The room was first washed in the vibrant “Petersen Red,” which then segued into deep blues and purples and other tones to complement the entertainment as well as the featured attraction: the Petersen itself.

Photo Credit: David Zaitz

All event photos courtesy of Scott Clark Photo