Dragging the Circle
circa 1958

The painting, titled "The Hub Diner," is a nostalgic portrayal of a beloved Americana establishment from the mid-20th century. The scene takes place on a late Saturday afternoon in May 1958, as the graduating class of that year gathers to celebrate their graduation by "dragging" the College and 11th Street traffic circle one more time, a popular pastime of the era in Texas. The focal point of the painting is the iconic blue '58 Impala, reminiscent of the one featured in the movie "Peggy Sue Got Married."

The Hub Diner, depicted in the painting, was built in the mid-1940s and expanded to a full-fledged restaurant by the late 1950s. The design of the additions was crafted by the artist's great uncle, Logan Welborn. The diner, representative of the era, was constructed in a factory and shipped to its location by truck or rail. The diner boasts "pleated" stainless equipment, decor, and plenty of colorful neon, capturing the essence of Americana.

In this nostalgic scene, the artist has included several classic cars and trucks, each with personal memories attached. The '57 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser reminds the artist of a spaceship, and the kids in the '55 Ford pickup are depicted wearing a Davy Crockett Coonskin Cap and 3-D glasses. The artist's own '41 Cadillac Series 75 is also visible, parked in front of the diner behind the custom classic '51 Mercury. The most memorable feature of the painting is the license plate of the blue '58 Impala, which bears the name "Buddy" as a tribute to Buddy Holly whose music was on the air all the time in 1958, and whose memory lives on.

Description by the Artist

Watch this video presentation by the artist describing the painting process, the research, and the hidden trivia in the painting.

The original painting is 36x24" on masonite panel, completed in 1989.

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