Development of the mural:

    While at an art reception last winter, a visitor suggested the idea of a
racing history mural to the artist. The idea seemed appealing and it wasn't
long before a location had been found and permission obtained from the
Watkins Glen Village Trustees. Gillespie's  recent Milliken print seemed to
be perfectly suited. It depicts a key figure in Watkins Glen racing lore
along with a familiar local landmark. The large wall painting gives the
impression of a photographic fast pan, where Milliken's sharply-focused
Bugatti speeds by the blurred, but easily recognized famous corner on the
original 6.5 mile circuit named after him. Bill Milliken, now 90 years old,
upon seeing the painting remarked, " You know, it isn't just about me. Let's
call it  A TRIBUTE TO AN ERA." The name is fitting when one considers the
many ways racing at Watkins Glen has changed since that first 1948 race.
   A photographic chronology of the mural along with a list of donors can be
found at www.glenspeed.com. Limited edition 16"x 20" prints of  the
original painting  which inspired the mural may be purchased for $70 by
contacting the artist at (315) 536-7185. Each print is individually signed
by Robert Gillespie and Bill Milliken.