I’ve been hearing from quite a few of you who’ve already gone—or are planning to go—see “Roaring: Art, Fashion and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939” at the St. Louis Art Museum. One note stood out:
“My husband and I just read your article that you posted in the Jewish Light about the art museum exhibit, “Roaring!” Nice research! We’re going to bring your article along as we tour the museum this afternoon!”
First of all—thank you. That made my day.
Second— I probably should’ve included a museum map or at least told you where to find the artists and works I mentioned. So, here’s a quick follow-up guide, with everything from Josephine Baker to Man Ray and exactly where to find them inside the exhibit:
I’ve decided to not include photos, to make this list printable.
Josephine Baker
Born in St. Louis, beloved in Paris—Josephine Baker’s glamorous automotive life is part of the section that explores how cars and couture collided, especially for women breaking barriers.
Gallery G242; Section 05 – Women at the Wheel
1928 Citroën B14 Coupe
This beautifully restored French ride, custom-decorated by Dutch artist Bernadette Ramaekers, is one of the first things you’ll see.
Gallery G247; Section 01 – Brutal Machines Made Beautiful
️Citroën Poster (“Audance”)
A bold bit of early automotive advertising from artist Pierre Louÿs, located just a few steps from the car.
Gallery G247; Section 01
Sarah Lipska – Winter Sports Outfit, Vest with Leg Warmers (1925)
Fashion meets function in this sleek wool ensemble by the Polish-born Jewish designer.
Gallery G247; Section 01
Man Ray – “Les Amoureux,” “The Prayer,” and “Dadaphoto”
Man Ray, born Emmanuel Radnitzky to a Jewish family in Philadelphia, helped define Surrealism with a camera and a sharp wit. These three images bring sensuality, chaos and style to the final room of the exhibit.
Gallery G250; Section 06 – Bodies Transformed
Ilse Bing – “Greta Garbo Poster, Paris”
Bing, a German-born Jewish photographer, offers a stylish glimpse of 1930s celebrity culture through her sharp, modern lens.
Gallery G250; Section 06
Pierre Chareau – Desk and Stool
One of France’s most inventive Jewish architects and designers, Chareau’s work shows up in the section about the slow, meticulous beauty of handcrafted design.
Gallery G244; Section 03 – Slow Work in Fast Times
If you’re heading to the museum, feel free to print this out or bookmark it—and if you spot anything I missed, send it my way. I’ll update the guide. And thank you again for reading.
What: “Roaring: Art, Fashion, and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939”
When: Runs through July 27
Where: St. Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park,
More Info: 314-721-0072 or
Visit them online.
