Mazda and Automotive Fine Arts Society Return to Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance

Auto Manufacturer Sponsors AFAS for Third Consecutive Year

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 10 -- Creating the ultimate driving and fine art experience, Mazda North American Operations has reunited with the Automotive Fine Arts Society to share both organizations' passion for automotive art and design by sponsoring the annual AFAS exhibit at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. The ninth annual event will occur at the Ritz- Carlton, Amelia Island, Florida, from March 12 through 14, 2004. AFAS is an international group of artists whose works are highly respected by art connoisseurs and auto enthusiasts.

"It's always wonderful for a company like Mazda to sponsor an AFAS exhibit," stated Ken Eberts, president of AFAS. "Their vehicles, which are based on pure excitement, are true works of art. When you see a well designed, gorgeous vehicle like the Miata or RX-8, you know that the souls of artists live inside everyone who worked on that car."

For the third consecutive year, Mazda is reuniting with AFAS to create the centerpiece of the weekend. "Car designers really are artists, and it's a pleasure to be able to associate Mazda with AFAS," said Truman Pollard, Design Director at MNAO. "By sponsoring the Automotive Fine Arts Society exhibit each year, we're preserving a part of the sports and classic car heritage that Mazda has strived to maintain over the years."

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and services support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide. For more information about Mazda North American Operations, visit www.mazda.com .

AFAS was established in 1983 by a group of artists who are acknowledged by critics to be among the best in their field. Members work in many diverse mediums including oil paintings, watercolors, wood, clay and metal. AFAS participates in select shows across the country including the Pebble Beach Concours 'Elegance and the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. Information about AFAS is available at www.autoartgallery.com/afas or by calling Scott Black at (214) 520-3430.