In this course, we will explore key eras of automotive history, as a way of understanding the profound impact cars have on society and culture. We will discuss the role of influential designers, the creation of iconic vehicles like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette, and the appeal of visionary concept cars like the Ford Nucleon – all of which highlight the creativity and innovation of each era. We will discuss how global car cultures, from America’s muscle cars to Japan’s futuristic designs, reflect the unique identities and values of their societies. These vehicles have become symbols of creativity, status, and technological progress. Whether it's Germany’s precision-engineered sports cars or Italy’s exquisitely crafted performance masterpieces, each region brings its own distinct flavor to the world of automotive design. Learn how the worldwide car scene showcases the diversity of human innovation and cultural expression, cementing automobiles as both a tool of progress and a reflection of societal evolution.

Instructor: Pandora Paúl, former curator at America’s Automotive Trust and LeMay America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington, enjoyed driving her father’s red ’59 Convertible Corvette, her mom’s ’70 Opel GT, and cruising in her own ’77 Malibu Classic station wagon. Her career has included both work and play in museum education, training, and curation. Paúl was part of the team at the San Diego Automotive Museum who created award-winning exhibits. She has served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Automobile Museums. She loves to showcase vehicles that have not been seen before. She believes that automobiles are snapshots of our culture, and she enjoys interpreting cars in unique ways that inspire conversation and create wonder and awe.

Course Dates: Wednesdays, April 9 to May 14, 7:00 - 8:30 PM (Eastern)

Registration is required to attend, and limited space is available.

Osher Online is a shared program exclusively for members of select Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs). This collaboration between the Osher National Resource Center and the School of Professional Studies at Northwestern University presents lecture and discussion-style courses over four academic terms – fall, winter, spring, and summer – yearly. The purpose of Osher Online is to share quality online courses and occasional special community events with local OLLIs.