The Fiat 500 has been acknowledged as a work of modern art by the Museum of Modern Art in NY. It is a fitting tribute to the Fiat 500 which celebrates its 60th anniversary today, July 4th.
In Italy, a new commemorative stamp dedicated to the Fiat 500 was unveiled on July 4th to celebrate the 60th Birthday of the iconic model range.
The Nuova Fiat 500 model that debuted on this day in 1957 became an iconic example of automotive design and was produced from 1957 thru 1975. More than 4 million cars were made. The Fiat 500 chosen to be part of the permanent display at the museum is the 500F produced from 1965 thru 1972.
Olivier François, Head of Fiat Brand and Chief Marketing Officer FCA is quoted saying:
"While the Fiat 500 has unquestionably left its mark on automotive history, it is equally true that it has never been just a car. In its 60 years of history, the 500 has transcended its material manifestation to enter the collective imagination and become an icon, which has now the honor of being certified by being acquired by MoMA in a tribute to its artistic and cultural value".
Martino Stierli, The Philip Johnson Chief Curator of Architecture and Design at MoMA adds:
"The Fiat 500 is an icon of automotive history that fundamentally altered car design and production. Adding this unpretentious masterpiece to our collection will allow us to broaden the story of automotive design as told by the Museum".
The modern Fiat 500 embodies the feel and flare of the classic car, but with all the modern comfort and conveniences. The new 500 has itself been recognized as a modern masterpiece by automotive experts around the world with over 140 awards.
As Fiat puts it:
"The Fiat 500 is the best-seller in Europe, ranking first in eight countries and among the first three in six others. The 2007 version won over 2,000,000 motorists in just ten years and has reaped accolade after accolade since its debut, including Car of the Year and the Compasso d'oro design award.
The 500 is the symbol of Italian creativity which has always inspired artists and designers worldwide becoming an icon of beauty and art. Today, it makes another step forward becoming a work of art in its own right by the side of the other great icons of Italian design and yet again remaining "Forever Young."
While there are other cars near the 500's price point, none offer the charisma of owning a modern icon. Happy Birthday Fiat 500.
Read about Fiat 500 Birthday celebrations held over the years.
Source and images: FCA NV press release
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