Automotive Fine Arts Society member, Tom Hale, will debut his latest painting, "Pontiac," during the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance(r) on August 16, 2009. The 48" x 38" acrylic on canvas painting represents the intricate chrome details and lines of a classic 1940 Pontiac automobile. With the recent announcement by General Motors that it will phase out the Pontiac brand, Hale's painting will commemorate a marque once revered as an American icon. Hale will unveil "Pontiac" as well as other new pieces during the 24th annual AFAS Pebble Beach art show sponsored by the Lincoln Division of Ford Motor Company.
"Cars of the '40s and '50s, specifically this Pontiac, glittered from one end to the other and entertained the buyer to the point of purchase," noted Hale. "With Pontiac's days numbered, I hope that the viewer appreciates the craftsmanship and artwork that went into these great automobiles and the legacy they are leaving behind."
True to his style, Hale focuses on the smallest features of the Pontiac's front end. Using reflection, light and a mixture of colors, he creates a composition that dances across the hood.
"As an artist, I see great beauty in the details of an automobile," added Hale. "The chrome and painted surfaces of this Pontiac, along with the famous 'silver streaks' and Indian hood ornament, allow me to create patterns of reflections and light that blend wonderfully."
After graduating with honors from the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Calif., Hale was a styling designer with General Motors, Chrysler and American Motors. In 1985, he began to pursue art as a full time career.
Hale has completed more than 3,100 original paintings, now featured in corporate, private and individual art collections. To date, he has been commissioned to create 47 event and Concours posters. In 2005, Hale was chosen to create the official poster art for the Pebble Beach Concours.
In addition to his AFAS membership, Hale is a Dolfin Fellow and signature member of the American Watercolor Society, the National Watercolor Society and the Michigan Watercolor Society. He is the recipient of the "Gold Medal of Honor" from the American Watercolor Society and was elected to the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum Hall of Fame in 2005.
Visit www.tomhalegallery.com for more information about Tom Hale and his artwork