Vettel acquires unique F1 art collection

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel has purchased an original 32-piece art collection celebrating all 32 Formula One world champions since the inception of the F1 drivers’ title in 1950.

The works were produced by international artist Mark Dickens, in collaboration with renowned F1 photographer Keith Sutton, with each celebrating the life and legacy of its subject.

They combine Dickens’s trademark mixed-media style - layers of photographic transfers, handmade paper, gold leaf, fabric, resin paint and text - with quotes gathered by Sutton on the subjects from fellow drivers and leading figures in the F1 paddock.

“I have long held an interest in the history of Formula One and the champions of this sport,” said Vettel, who has four drivers’ crowns to his name.

“When I first heard of this project three years ago I was fascinated, but it wasn’t until I saw the completed original art works in London last December that I realised how impressive they are.

“The addition of the quotes collected by Keith from so many different motorsport figures gives a great insight into the champions. I know I will appreciate these works for years to come.”

As one of the 32 champions, Vettel is of course among the subjects of the collection. However, he also contributed to another - that on 1970 winner Jochen Rindt, F1 racing’s only posthumous world champion.

“Rindt was a pure racer,” said Vettel. “He became a true inspiration when I was becoming a man. He was a lunatic in a very positive way, seeking out for any possible challenge on four wheels. His loss was tragic as he had so much more to give to Formula One. He was a great champion. Shame I never met him!”

In addition to the collection acquired by Vettel, Dickens and Sutton have produced a painting about Formula One group CEO Bernie Ecclestone, the sale proceeds of which are going to London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital, with a cheque to be presented to the charity at this weekend’s 2016 Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone.