Case study: Mike Van Thiel – Machines With A Mission
The Challenge
While browsing automotive websites, I discovered “Machines with a Mission” – a fascinating site dedicated to “magnificent machines designed and built with a passion for either speed, record breaking or random craziness.” Specializing in historic competition cars, the site immediately caught my attention, prompting me to reach out to owner Mike Van Thiel. Mike responded with an intriguing proposition: he and co-driver Charlie March Jr would be racing a Ford Mustang replica at Goodwood’s MM81 event. The car was built as a tribute to the iconic Mustang featured in Claude Lelouche’s classic 1966 film “Un Homme et Une Femme” – which happened to be one of my all-time favorite films! Mike wanted a cartoon commemorating this unique blend of cinema and motorsport.
Client: Mike Van Thiel, Machines with a Mission
Project: Custom cartoon celebrating film-inspired racing tribute
Timeline: Completed within two weeks
Deliverable: Digital artwork file
The Creative Solution
The cartoon needed to capture both the cinematic heritage and the Goodwood racing context. Working from reference photos Mike provided of himself, Charlie March Jr, and their film replica Mustang, I created a scene showing the duo with their car against the backdrop of Goodwood’s distinctive signage. The text became a playful homage that combined Mike’s clever wordplay with respect for the original filmmaker: “Charlie and Mike paying tribute to Claude Lelouche. ‘Un homme et un Duc’ – Crunching gears at Goodwood!” This perfectly captured the humor of the project while acknowledging both the cinematic inspiration and the reality of vintage racing.
The side-view composition showcased the Mustang’s classic lines while positioning Charlie and Mike prominently, creating a balanced tribute to both the machine and its drivers.
The Process
1. Discovery: Found Machines with a Mission website during automotive research
2. Initial Contact: Reached out via email expressing interest in their unique concept
3. Brief Development: Mike explained the film tribute concept and Goodwood context
4. Concept Refinement: Discussed composition, text, and Goodwood setting details
5. Reference Gathering: Received photos of Mike, Charlie, and the replica Mustang
6. Design Creation: Combined cinematic tribute with motorsport authenticity
7. Delivery: Supplied digital artwork ready for use
The Result
The finished cartoon successfully celebrated the intersection of classic cinema and historic motorsport. Mike was very pleased with the result, which captured both the playful nature of their “Un homme et un Duc” tribute and the serious craftsmanship of their film-replica Mustang.
The artwork served as both a personal memento of their Goodwood racing experience and a celebration of how automotive passion connects across decades and mediums – from Claude Lelouche’s iconic 1960s film to contemporary historic racing.
Why This Project Worked
• Shared Passion: My love for “Un Homme et Une Femme” created instant connection and enthusiasm
• Cultural Reference: Combined classic cinema with motorsport heritage
• Clever Wordplay: Mike’s “Un homme et un Duc” concept added perfect humor
• Authentic Details: Used actual photos of participants and replica car
• Contextual Setting: Goodwood signage grounded the tribute in racing reality
• Respectful Homage: Honored both original filmmaker and contemporary racers
• Personal Connection: Celebrated friendship and shared racing adventure
This project demonstrates how automotive passion transcends boundaries, connecting classic films, historic racing, and contemporary friendships through shared appreciation for beautiful machines and memorable experiences.
Ready to Create Your Own Automotive Memory?
Whether you’re inspired by classic films, celebrating racing partnerships, or honoring the machines that capture your imagination, I’d love to help bring your automotive story to life. Every project connects passion with artistry, creating lasting tributes to the vehicles and experiences that matter most. Get in touch to discuss your ideas – I’d be delighted to create something special that captures your unique automotive journey.
