Robert Opron Retrospective Now in Luxembourg
A few days ago, the Conservatoire National de Véhicules Historiques (CNVH) in Diekirch/Luxembourg opened its doors to host the retrospective about the famous french automobile designer Robert Opron. Under the title “The Tenderness of the Absolute”, the exhibition will present about 20 vehicles for which Opron was responsible, combined with personal drawings, designs and also “maquettes”, smaller-scaled concepts by Opron.
“The tenderness of the absolute” – This powerful quote by Robert Opron reveals a profound philosophical view of automotive design and creation.
Here he expresses the idea that true masterpieces of automotive design contain a kind of “tenderness” or attention to detail in their conception and implementation.
It is the idea that behind the outward appearance of a car there is a deep, almost romantic connection between designer and work. This “tenderness of the absolute” is a reminder that an exceptional automotive design is not just a string of shapes and lines, but an expression of dedication and passion for creating something truly extraordinary.
It is a call to appreciate perfection and elegance in design that goes beyond the practical and elevates the automobile to an art form.
The special exhibition at the national historic vehicle museum (CNVH) in Diekirch / Luxembourg pays tribute to the life and work of the designer, who is considered one of the great creative geniuses of the last century.
The retrospective is a joint project of:
* Amicale Robert Opron, an association dedicated to the preservation of knowledge about Robert Opron and his creations
* Conservatoire National de Véhicules Historiques (CNVH)
* L’Aventure Peugeot Citroën DS and its Conservatoire Citroën, the collection of the heritage of the brand
* Amicale Citroën Internationale (ACI), the association of all Citroën car clubs world-wide
* André Citroën-Club, Germany’s biggest enthusiast club for Citroën vehicles from 1919 until today
and under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture of Luxembourg.
You can experience this retrospective until May 11, 2025.
For more details on tickets, travel, etc., please visit the museum’s website: https://www.cnvh.lu
Update — Nov. 4, 2024:
FIVA Culture Award – “Robert Opron Retrospective – The Tenderness of the Absolute”
Dear members, partners and enthusiasts,
It is with great joy and pride that we announce that our exhibition “Robert Opron Retrospective – The Tenderness of the Absolute” has been honored with the prestigious FIVA Culture Award in the “Dedicated Service” category! This international recognition pays tribute to our collective commitment to preserving and sharing Robert Opron’s legacy with the general public.
The cultural commission of the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) has praised the exceptional impact of this exhibition in the fields of education, preservation and promotion of the culture of historic vehicles. This distinction validates the importance of our joint efforts within the Conservatoire National de Véhicules Historiques.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Amicale Robert Opron and the Conservatoire Citroën, whose support and collaboration have been essential to the success of this project. We also warmly thank all the collectors and enthusiasts who have generously lent their vehicles, contributing decisively to the richness and authenticity of this exhibition. Their commitment and generosity have made it possible to bring this retrospective to life and offer the public a vibrant tribute to the art and technology of the French automobile.
Together, we have worked to promote French automotive culture and to keep this artistic and technical heritage alive for future generations.
As part of the FIVA General Assembly to be held on 15 and 16 November in Vienna, we will have the opportunity to present this exhibition to an international audience. This is a valuable opportunity to promote our work and strengthen our mission on a global scale.
To each of you, we extend our sincere thanks for your continued support, which has made this success possible. This award is the fruit of our shared efforts, and it is a testament to the strength of our shared commitment.