“Spirit of Ecstasy on Scenic” — Original Multi-Media Art by Elaine Lazarus
Gouache painting and digital photography on watercolor paper, 13” x 19”
Matted and framed size: 18” x 24”

This vibrant multimedia collage blends gouache, illustration, and photography to reimagine the story of the Spirit of Ecstasy, the iconic Rolls-Royce hood ornament. First commissioned in 1909 by the editor of Car Illustrated Magazine, the sculpture was modeled after his secret mistress and depicts a woman leaning forward, arms outstretched, with flowing fabric resembling wings. In this piece, the legend is reinterpreted through bold imagery: a towering tree along Scenic Drive in Carmel, California, antique Rolls-Royces, a butterfly, red lips, and headlights painted as breasts on the grille—all woven together with color, pattern, and symbolism.