(ARA) Combining the number one spectator sport in America with one of today's hottest decorating trends, Environmental Graphics has introduced a new wall mural featuring NASCAR rookie driving sensation Tony Stewart.
The popularity of the company's murals has been sparked by appearances in numerous TV shows and major motion pictures, such as "Primary Colors", and most recently "Big Daddy".
NASCAR-themed accents like borders and appliqus are already very popular with home decorators, notes Todd Imholte of Environmental Graphics. "With murals being as hot as they are, we felt the time was right for a design that would appeal to the millions of NASCAR fans out there."
Environmental Graphics' new design brings Stewart's car to life in a full-color, wall-sized photographic mural. It adds action and excitement to the plainest wall. For ease of hanging, it's printed in eight panels, each measuring 49 1/2 by 41 inches. The finished size is over 8 ft. tall by 13 ft. wide, but it can also be trimmed to fit smaller walls. Paste and simple instructions are included.
"We felt Tony Stewart would be the perfect subject because he's a popular up-and-coming driver," says Imholte. "We really appreciate the support we've received from him and the people at Home Depot who sponsor his car."
Stewart was impressed when he saw the final product. "I think it's great to see (the car) in life size when you walk into a room. It's very attractive and puts a special touch on one's room where memorabilia is kept."
Fans have been equally impressed. "My husband and I are big race fans," says Joanne Simmerson of Ocala, Florida. "We have a room full of NASCAR souvenirs. I can't believe the difference it makes when you put the mural up. It brings the entire room together."
Ben White travels the NASCAR racing circuit writing articles for NASCAR Winston Cup Illustrated magazine. As a lifelong model car hobbyist, he plans to open a store in the near future catering to collectors.
"I can see this mural becoming a collectible item also," says White. "Had these come out 20 or 30 years ago, think of how valuable they would be with the cars of drivers like Bobby Allison, Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, or David Pearson. I'm certain these will increase in value."
Each mural contains a notarized Certificate of Authenticity signed by the president of the company. The certificate is watermarked, making duplication virtually impossible.
The new mural design has also been a hit with dealers throughout the country. "I'm glad Environmental Graphics decided to add this mural to their other designs," says Tony Oost, assistant manager of The Home Depot store in Clarksville, Indiana. "Customers are always asking about NASCAR merchandise."
One thing worried him though. "Tony Stewart is from this area, and everyone here is crazy about the guy. When I saw the order come in for this new mural, I knew there wouldn't be enough because I wanted to buy two for myself," he laughed.
The Tony Stewart wall mural is available at wallcovering retailers throughout North America, including The Home Depot. Other wall mural designs can be viewed online at www.egproducts.com.
