The Michael Turner Collection

The work of Michael Turner neatly encapsulates how much Formula One has changed. The idea that an artist could become such a pillar of the paddock that he’d be asked to style a car seems absurd. But Turner adapted the Mclaren M1A into B for founder and friend Bruce. ‘He wanted it to be smaller and smoother,’ writes Turner. This is his collection of Christmas card sets, which also builds up as a unique record of key races and moments. There is insight, too, with author Chas Parker offering a brief snapshot of each race alongside Turner’s revelations. Some are more prosaic than others, but it reveals the attention to detail Turner put in and of which he was so proud.

F1 comprises the bulk, as late as the unattractive cars of the 2010s, with Graham Hill a regular early subject. The focus on the Christmas card sets, six a year from each season, means that side projects are only catalogued at the end. It’s a shame they weren’t afforded more space, because some are fantastic. Not one for the masses, perhaps, but if you know you know, and you’ll want it. And not be disappointed. JP

£70 Chas Parker with Michael Turner, Porter Press. ISBN 9781907085994