The Automobile Photograph

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. This painting eloquently depicts a 1907 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost and its driver posing for a photograph being taken by an elegant lady dressed in pink. The automobile is positioned half in the shade and half in the sun and we can see shadows of the leaves dappled on the bonnet of the automobile. We can safely conclude that taking a photograph in the past was quite a lengthy affair and the subject matter has been patiently waiting for the right moment. Schmehl’s eye for detail can clearly be seen in the lace of the lady’s dress, the precision of the leaves in the backdrop and the general detail of the automobile.