The Automotive Hall of Fame is hosting renowned Automotive Fine Arts Society member Charles Maher’s “Ten Years of Cruising” exhibit, which is open to the public through March 2009 at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Mich. 

The exhibit, which features the official artwork for the Ferndale Woodward Dream Cruise Weekend from the last ten years, is the first time the original paintings have been on public display as a collection.  Maher is the only artist who has been commissioned to paint the artwork for the Cruise, which occurs each August.

“It’s very rewarding to look at this collection and recognize how wonderful it’s been to work with the Woodward Dream Cruise organization since 1999,” said Maher.  “I’m truly appreciative for this opportunity to showcase my work at the Automotive Hall of Fame.  Of course, I love anything fast and fun and this Ferndale Dream Cruise collection has given me the opportunity to stretch my artistic license to really create some dynamic pieces that I hope everyone can appreciate.”

In addition to the “Ten Years of Cruising” artwork, the exhibit also features five other paintings depicting a 1957 Bugatti Atlantic, Ferrari F1 Racer and BMW as well as an Indian motorcycle.  A limited number of each poster from the “Ten Years of Cruising” exhibit can be purchased, marking the first time a complete collection of the Woodward Dream Cruise poster artwork will be made available.

“This is actually the third time Charles has exhibited with us, but with work we’ve never seen before,” said Jeffery Leestma, Automotive Hall of Fame president. “Even though the cruising season is over in Michigan, the spirit of cruising can continue through the winter because of his outstanding artwork.”

Maher has been an independent artist since 1988.  In addition to the Ferndale Woodward Dream Cruise, his work has been displayed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, Concours d’Elegance at Ault Park in Cincinnati, the Concours at Cranbrook and the Eyes on Design Exhibition in Grosse Point, Mich.  Maher was selected as the poster artist for the 2007 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz.  His studio is located in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., where he resides with his wife of 33 years.

Autographed editions of the “Ten Years of Cruising” collection will be available from the artist during the exhibit at the Automotive Hall of Fame, which is located next to The Henry Ford.   Exhibit hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.  Call (313) 240-4000 for more information about the exhibit and poster sales.

About the Automotive Fine Arts Society

Celebrating its 25th year of existence, the AFAS includes some of the most prestigious talents in fine art.  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.