Art Notes

Talladega Superspeedway® is well known for its long, four-wide backstretch and high-banked turns that thrill all NASCAR race fans. Today’s race pace car is the one commandeered by a fan before the start of the race in 1986. In the distance, you can see the iconic diesel big rig that fans loved that pulled a large American Flag around the track during the playing of the National Anthem. Thomas Kinkade Studios® is pleased to pay homage to NASCAR’s historic past and capture on canvas its bright future in NASCAR® Talladega.

Key Points

• NASCAR® Talladega is the fourth art collaboration between NASCAR® and Thomas Kinkade Studios®. The first three paintings in the collection are NASCAR® Thunder, This is Talladega, and 75 Years of NASCAR®.
• This painting celebrates the Talladega Superspeedway®, one of NASCAR’s most iconic racetracks. The 2.66-mile track is known for high-speed racing and exciting moments. This art portrays Talladega’s Turn 4.
• Situated on the former Anniston Air Force Base in Lincoln, Alabama, Talladega Superspeedway® opened in September 1969, and continues to host some of NASCAR’s most popular events.
• Did you know that from its opening in 1969 until 1989, the track was called Alabama International Motor Speedway?
• The pace car featured in this painting is a nod to the pace car that was stolen by a fan on May 4, 1986. He successfully drove 1 lap around the track at 100 mph before being apprehended. This moment is a legendary part of Talladega’s history.