Peugeot Nr. 22 & Lorraine Dietrich Nr. 31

Bradley (Brad) Schmehl is an American historical artist from Pennsylvania, where he has resided all his life. He attended the Pennsylvania School of the Arts (now Pennsylvania College of Art and Design). From a young age felt compelled to draw and paint the things that he loved in the world around him. He strives to be a naturalist painter with a realistic style and a remarkable eye for detail. Bradley’s work always tends towards the historical, and he researches the subjects for his paintings through diaries, letters, books and visiting historical sites. His interests range from weaponry and machines, historic architecture, figures, and animals to nature. Schmehl never portrays figures as “types” but seeks to depict unique individuals with a broad palette of human emotions. He endeavours to draw the viewer into his art by means of dramatic composition, his portrayal of light and his use of naturalistic tones and colours. Schmehl’s work is featured in collections across America, including the Booth Western Art Museum, the Delaware State Museum, the Command General Staff College, the U.S. Army War College, as well as the Philadelphia Convention Center. The 1912 French Grand Prix race is afoot, and the Peugeot L76 Nr. 22 driven by George Louis Frédéric Boillot (1884 - 1916) is taking the lead. The Lorraine Dietrich Nr. 31 is still eating dust and Paul Florian Bablot (1873 - 1932) is trying to hang on. Unfortunately Bablot ended up retiring his automobile due to engine failure and Boillot ending up winning the race. One can almost feel the energy in the race and exhilaration that the drivers must have experienced behind the steering wheel of their automobiles.