An art once considered vandalism now tastefully graces the body of one of the most well-known high performance sports cars of our time

By Marcos Colón

Spray-painted under bridges. Etched across city walls. Scrawled on the overpasses. It is no doubt that most forms of graffiti are considered eyesores, nuisances that need to be eradicated and painted over as quickly as possible.

But in recent years, some forms of graffiti are getting worldwide recognition as beautiful and intriguing art-just take works by Britain’s infamous Banksy for example, an artist whose work inspires the imagination and garners international attention.

For roughly three weeks, a graffiti artist was scrawling on a car at Prestige Imports on Biscayne Boulevard, but we would be hard-pressed to label it as vandalism. Graffiti artist Jona Cerwinske, known for his work with stars like Lenny Kravitz and record producer Swizz Beatz, put a twist on a car that was already considered a classic; now it can be considered iconic as well.

The Gallardo, named after a famous breed of fighting bulls, has long been Lamborghini’s bestselling super car. In fact, the car is the most-produced model the firm has. As if the ride’s stylish exterior wasn’t enough, the one-of-a-kind graffiti-type art now adorning its body is sure to impress all. Originally finished in balloon white with a two-tone black and white interior, the car is now covered by Cerwinske’s intricate and visually stunning design, which he completed with Sharpie brand Paint Markers, leading to the name of the vehicle: The Sharpie Lamborghini. The work took place mostly at night inside Prestige Import’s North Miami showroom.

The Sharpie Paint Markers, with their thick bold ends, made the awe-inspiring design possible. At first glance, the Gallardo looks like a tattooed automobile; only an observer’s eye can catch all of the intricate details Cerwinske included, everything from flowers to urban-style script. The designs are unique, and the tribal transitions used from bumper to bumper are sure to make the Sharpie Lamborghini a head turner on any street.

Brett David, owner of Lamborghini Miami/Prestige Imports, is the brainchild behind the car’s concept. He wanted to showcase Lamborghini Miami’s prowess to the Italian headquarters, as well as demonstrate his ability to reach a younger-yet still affluent-demographic. It is with this vision that David works to expand the Lamborghini market in the US, and with the Sharpie already garnering national attention, David’s message is being heard.

Aside from its extraordinary appearance, the Sharpie Lamborghini is also a work of art under the hood. Going from 0 to 60mph in 4 seconds flat, with a top speed of 192mph, the Gallardo is a force to be reckoned with. The car is the first of the Italian brand to feature the new Lamborghini V10 engine, which is only the third engine to ever be made by Lamborghini. They know not to mess with perfection under the hood; the exterior, obviously, is another story.

With a price tag that normally hovers around $240,000-depending on options-the Sharpie Lamborghini could garner anywhere from $350,000 to $400,000 at auction. Extremely satisfied with the finished product that he says is generating an “amazing” response, David still isn’t quite sure what will come of the Sharpie. “The car was built as a masterpiece that belongs in someone’s house as a piece of art,” he says. “I’m not sure if I would like to sell it, but if so, it does belong in the presence of someone who enjoys art and performance.” Whoever does get their hands on the Sharpie Lamborghini will not only possess a top of the line car, but also own a moving work of art.