CHESTERFIELD, Mich., Feb. 18, 2016 – On Tuesday, February 9, Automotive Fine Arts Society (AFAS) member Jay Koka unveiled his original work which was commissioned to be the official poster for the 2016 EyesOn Design Automotive Exhibition at Stahls Automotive Foundation in Chesterfield, Michigan. Koka, a master of impressionist art, is known for his ability to manipulate color and mood to create automotive masterpieces. In addition to the poster, Koka’s artwork will also set the tone for the EyesOn Design car show taking place on June 19, at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan.

“I’m honored to be chosen to create the official 2016 EyesOn art,” said Koka. “This year’s event features a 1931 Cord “La Grande”. The car is a perfect combination of proportion and design. I initially thought to incorporate some design aspects from the art deco era into the background, but quickly realized that the background would overshadow the car. In the end, I resolved to create a piece that would showcase this magnificent machine on the event poster.”

The 2016 EyesOn Design poster features a gorgeous 1931 Cord L-29 “LaGrande” Speedster parked in front of the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House. The car pictured is the so-called “lost Cord,” believed to have once been owned by movie star Jean Harlow; it disappeared after exhibitions in New York, Toronto and Paris in the 1930s.

“We were thrilled that Jay agreed to create the 2016 commemorative poster art for the EyesOn Design Automotive Show,” said Kathy Lightbody, EyesOn Design Chairman. “His work is known around the world and we could not have chosen a more respected artist. The 1931 Cord featured on the poster was fast, exclusive and powerful, all traits that represent this year’s exhibition theme – ‘Powered by Design’.”

 Celebrated by audiences around the world, Koka’s art has been featured at many international events over the years. His work has graced posters for the Pebble Beach Concours, the iconic Daytona 500 and legendary 24 Hours of Daytona and the Barrett-Jackson car auction, as well as several other automotive events.

Koka’s original paintings, as well as a catalog of his more than 150 prints and poster editions are featured at www.jaykokastudio.com and www.autoartprints.com.

About the Automotive Fine Arts Society
AFAS was established in 1983 by a group of artists who are acknowledged by critics to be among the best in their field. Members work in many diverse mediums including oil, watercolors, acrylics, wood, gouache, pen & ink, clay and metal. AFAS and its members participate in select shows across the country including the Pebble Beach Concours d´Elegance, Dana Point Concours d’Elegance and the Amelia Island Concours d´Elegance. Information about AFAS is available at www.autoartgallery.com or by contacting Tyler Weiland at 214.520.3430 X 302 or TWeiland@tprm.com

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