Reporting Back from the Indy 500!

Though most powerboat aficionados have seen Dean Loucks’ work on many top-of-the-line Cigarettes, Outerlimits and other top brands, not all motorheads are as familiar with his artistry. Well, Dean definitely made his mark at the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 last weekend as he roared into town in his Street Legal Indy Car—Eddie Cheever’s 2000 back up Dalara, which he totally renovated, tricked out and painted in his notable TAOD style. Getting stopped only once by a chagrinned traffic cop who realized immediately that with the Indiana plate and lights, the car WAS street-legal, Dean made his way through the city and onto the Speedway for a spin! He turned heads everywhere he went, people trying to drive and take photos, people stopping on the street, people lining up to take their photos with the car!

He also debuted his Indy-inspired fine artwork at displays in various chic locations around town and took part in some prestigious Indy 500 charity events.

American Powerboat TV has a 7-minute video of Dean Loucks; “Street Legal and Indy Bound” video posted to www.americanpowerboat.tv (click on the TAOD Channel on the bottom of the right columns, kick back and enjoy! Then spread the news to other motorsports and art fans!)

John Potts of Creative Television Communications did a great job of capturing the experience which was a wonderful one for all involved. The photos of Dean’s donation of his stunning painting of the Al Unser Jr.’s 1992 Indy 500 Championship Valvoline car that Al, Jr. signed at a private reception for his daughter Cody’s First Step Foundation (see below), will soon be added to his website www.taod1.com. (There are a few of this and others on Dean’s Facebook page.) Cody was also awed by the gorgeous painting Dean gave to her as a graduation gift—depicting a purple jellyfish--her favorite. Contributing to this inspiring cause to help fight paralysis was gratifying for all involved and we look forward to further participation in the near future. The documentary, “Cody” will air on PBS this summer—be sure to look for it on your local channels—it will bring you in touch with her heart—and your own. The Valvoline painting will be auctioned in an upcoming auction in conjunction with AutoWeek Magazine so we’ll keep you informed.

Spending Memorial Day weekend at the Indy 500 and being a part of Ellen Greenleaf’s many efforts on the part of the numerous charities involved was a phenomenal experience and we’re grateful to her and Greg Dawson for including Dean and The Art of Design into the many activities over the course of the weekend. (We knew she was the power behind OSS but she is even MORE awesome in her hometown of Indianapolis!) Many thanks also to Bob & Eddie at 1070 The Fan, Lucas Oil and the Stutz Business Center (Turner Woodard Development), The Woodstock Club, The Embassy Suites and the Conrad Hotel—what a fabulous place--for the hospitality—it was such a treat to be in Indy and to share Dean’s dream trip that so many great people helped make come true! The American Powerboat TV video will be on YouTube soon as well. Stay tuned!

That is so neat. It just amazes me how they think up these idea's.

Every man should have one of those. Probably costs less than a lambo and way cooler.

man thats cool! if i could i would do it as well......only question i have is how do you make an ex-race car street legal??? only thing i see done is some fog lights under the front wing and some street tires?? how is that street legal? Here in IL when i had my lifted truck, if the tires were more the 2" past the fenders they could ticket you....plus i dont see how the front wing could be passed as a bumper....how about the rear bumper? Turn signals??? can someone explain to me

Maybe it's different in Indiana

Very cool! I would hate to rearend a tractor trailer at any speed...I thought you had to have wheel wells or flaps to make a vehicle street legal?

in some states you can be fenderless under a certain weight..

That is AWESOME!!

That works the same for top less. Only allowed under a certain weight.