Jeff Gold’s Rescued Studio Art Collection

Gary Smith — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 07:02:04 +0000

Rendering by Pete Wozena

About Jeff’s Collection: “I began collecting after reading car designer biographies and seeing styling art published in Collectible Automobile Magazine during the mid 1980′s. By contacting retired designers, I found that some were willing to give or sell pieces from their portfolios. I always had a deep interest in automobile design history, especially GM, and was fascinated with the designers stories, especially the early days with Mr. Earl and Mitchell. I read everything I could find and interviewed many people in the design field over the years. Chuck Jordan and most of the designers I met were supportive of my efforts and agreed this art was special and should be saved, I cherished it. After some time, I found a small network of like-minded collectors to trade and share information with. Much of the art from the Earl/Mitchell eras has been lost and it’s rare today to find much of anything, I continue to look and remain interested in adding to my collection.” If any Dean’s Garage readers have information about available studio artwork, advertising illustrations, or models, contact Jeff.

There are four other posts on Dean’s Garage that feature studio artwork. Enter “rescued” as a search term.

[Show as slideshow]

Homer LaGassey

Gary Smith — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 06:34:05 +0000

Homer LaGassey, legendary CCS teacher and designer at GM, Chrysler, and Ford, worked for GM in the Motorama days (early to mid 1950′s). Homer, also master of the off-the-cuff quip, claims Harley didn’t fire him over this incident although it is hard to believe. Apparently Homer summoned an elevator. When the doors opened, there was Mister Earl with a shopping bag in each arm heading for the executive garage. Homer, possibly a bit intimidated over riding with Mr. Earl blurted out, “Taking home your pay Mr. Earl?” I’m sure a chilly silence followed. If I am able get additional details on the story, I’ll post them (SEE COMMENTS).

According to Bill Porter, Homer, who was assistant in Pontiac at the time, says he quit because of round-the-clock overtime. Claimed his kids cried when he did come home. “Who’s that strange man, mommy?”

These images of his artwork were in my files. I will be happy to give credit if notified of the source. I successfully resisted the urge to caption them.

Dean’s Garage » Homer LaGassey

Jeff Gold’s Rescued Studio Art Collection

Homer LaGassey