U.S. artist David Macaluso has created a unique portrait of Lewis Hamilton using old engine oil from his Vodaphone McLaren Mercedes-Benz Formula One car. The picture was commissioned by oil firm Mobil 1 to celebrate Hamilton's 2008 World Championship success and also to highlight Mobil's role in the UK-wide car maintenance initiative www.CheckYourOil.co.uk, which starts Monday June 15.

The painting will be officially unveiled at an ExxonMobil VIP event the evening before Hamilton's home Grand Prix at Silverstone. A limited run of fifty prints of the unusual portrait can be won in a competition at www.mobil-1.co.uk in the run up to the British Grand Prix. Hamilton was surprised by Macaluso's unique creation saying: 'I'm very impressed with the oil painting,' adding, 'the oil gives it a unique look and feel.'

Macaluso, who is an expert in using motor oils as a medium for his pictures, said: 'I've been recycling used motor oil into paintings since 2005, so it was exciting to do a portrait of Lewis, and it was a privilege.' Lewis fans will be able to see him in person soon at both the British Grand Prix on June 19, and the Goodwood Festival of Speed that runs over the first weekend of July.