Automotive Sculptor Bruce Wheeler Reveals The Spirt Of Innovation Through A Renault Race Car

July 30, 2010 - PRLog -- PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. – July 30, 2010 – Sculptor and Automotive Fine Arts Society member Bruce Wheeler will reveal a new sculpture of a 1906 Renault race car at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 15, 2010.  The 24” long sculpture is of hand-formed copper and brass construction and the first of a 12-piece series.  Wheeler continues to attract art connoisseurs from across the globe, as part of the Automotive Fine Arts Society, a group of international automotive artists who create subjects in watercolors, acrylics, oils, wood and various metals.

Always searching for subject matter that is historically significant and visually interesting, Wheeler created this piece to represent the winner of the first French Grand Prix at Le Mans.  That race took place on June 26-27, 1906.  

“The inspiration for my work isn’t derived from engineering advancements or racing achievements, although many of these ideas have impacted the appearance of cars throughout the years,” said Wheeler.  “I enjoy searching for subject matter that reflects the spirit of innovation, and the 1906 Renault race car is a perfect example of this philosophy.”

The shaft driven car was not the most advanced car that entered the Grand Prix, but it had two distinct advantages. One was the first use of hydraulic dampers on a race car and the second, more important advantage was the adoption of rear wheels with removable rims.

“These engineering advancements were not the only ones that dramatically impacted the appearance of the car,” added Wheeler.  “A more significant development and successful engineering idea was the placement of the radiator, which was behind the engine.  Keep in mind that this was considered ‘State of the Art’ during that time period.”  

Prior to working as an artist full time, Wheeler was a former design sculptor for General Motors.  His automotive interest was piqued by the Fisher-body Craftsman Guild competitions, which eventually led him to Michigan State University’s College of Fine Art where he received a degree in Industrial Design.

Wheeler and his sculptures have won such honors and awards as the Award of Excellence at Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance and four Awards of excellence at Gilmore Classic Car Club Concours.  His most cherished are the Lincoln award for "Most Elegant Automotive Art" and the "Athena Award from the AFAS.”  He has completed private commissions for customers like Mercedes-Benz in the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan and the California Mille.  

Working solely in copper, brass and German silver, every piece of Wheeler’s art is hand formed to help with the impression that each automotive subject leaves on its viewer.  Each piece is hand painted after assembly to assure that it is one of a kind.

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About the Automotive Fine Arts Society
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, watercolors, acrylics, wood, gouache, pen & ink, clay and metal. AFAS participates in select shows across the country including the Pebble Beach Concours d´Elegance and the Amelia Island Concours d´Elegance. Information about AFAS is available at www.autoartgallery.com or by contacting Laura Sayed at (214) 520-3430 ext. 306, lsayed@tprm-usa.com or www.tprm-usa.com.