Watkins Glen International Adds Color to Chamber of Commerce

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Stephen Oosterling answered The Glen’s call for a local artist late in 2012 to create a mural spanning a 10’ x 17’ wall and signify over 65 years of sports car racing history at Watkins Glen International. The Williamson, NY-based motorsports artist exceeded expectations with the final piece displayed at the Watkins Glen Chamber of Commerce on Franklin Street.

“Guests of Watkins Glen need to stop into the Chamber and see this outstanding piece of work,” Michael Printup, Watkins Glen International President expressed. “It is great to work with Steve on such a significant project and see the final product.”

Printup’s only request was to ensure the final piece represented everything that has raced at The Glen.

Oosterling did that, selecting five cars that embody the storied racing history of Watkins Glen International. The No. 99 Toyota Eagle MKIII IMSA GTP driven by Juan Manuel Fangio II, the No. 6 Elf Tyrrell 006 Cosworth Ford piloted by Francois Cevert, the No. 9 Target Dallara/Honda taken to Victory Lane by Scott Dixon, Hurley Haywood’s No. 59 Porsche 911 GRAND-AM GT and Tony Stewart’s No. 14 Office Depot Chevrolet Impala.

“It was a really great experience,” Oosterling said. “It is the first mural I have ever done and I am really pleased with it. Everything came together through the collaboration with The Glen.”

Seventeen-year old son, Alex Oosterling, a junior at Williamson Central, helped his father complete his first-ever mural in eight days. Oosterling and his son worked every Saturday for eight weeks, totaling to approximately 70 hours.

“Watkins Glen International is an integral part of our community and it is so important for the track to have a significant presence at our Visitors Center,” Rebekah LaMoreaux, President and CEO of Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce said. “It is a fantastic piece of art and truly represents the history of The Glen.”

Oostering’s work is part of private and corporate collections through North America. His career in motorsports art began in 1994 and Oosterling started working with The Glen in 2000 after displaying artwork during September vintage weekends.

WGI RP

Speedway Digest Staff
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