The Breakdown

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 temperature is rising on a summer’s day in rural America. It seems a lady driver has run into a spot of trouble and she has taken to her tools to replace the front wheel of her automobile. Unfortunately she seems a long way off from achieving her goal, even though she has all the tools she needs. A passerby has stopped to see if he can be of some assistance but the lady does not seem too happy about the matter, whereas the passerby has a smile on his face.