![François Cevert portrait by artist John Parkin Classic & Sports Car – Motoring art: John Parkin](/sites/default/files/styles/article/public/2024-04/Classic-%26-Sports-Car-Motoring-art-John-Parkin-01.png?itok=ZWVlHmCu)
Be it astronauts, stunt performers or famous Grand Prix aces, John Parkin’s portraits capture the moments of drama in colourful style.
Movies have often inspired him, and it was the 1969 release Winning, with Paul Newman and Robert Wagner, that sparked his first motorsport portrait.
“Eyes have always captivated me,” says John. “Newman’s vivid blue stare inside that Bell helmet is iconic.”
![James Hunt by John Parkin Classic & Sports Car – Motoring art: John Parkin](/sites/default/files/2024-04/Classic-%26-Sports-Car-Motoring-art-John-Parkin-02.png)
James Hunt, as portrayed by artist John Parkin, who uses his work to capture the emotions of motorsport legends
That painting led to a series of leading Grand Prix stars, starting with Jim Clark.
“With open-face helmets you can really study the emotion of the moment,” he adds.
The collection quickly expanded with portraits of Jackie Stewart, François Cevert, Ronnie Peterson, Niki Lauda and James Hunt.
“There’s something special about that era,” John continues.
“Modern Formula One just doesn’t inspire. The expressions are hidden under reflective visors and advertising.”
![Barry Sheene, painted by John Parkin Classic & Sports Car – Motoring art: John Parkin](/sites/default/files/2024-04/Classic-%26-Sports-Car-Motoring-art-John-Parkin-03.png)
Barry Sheene’s 1975 Daytona crash was commissioned by The Prodigy frontman Keith Flint