Behind the Scenes Update

Welcome to the first (of hopefully many) Behind the Scenes updates! I realised that while I often share new prints and collections with you, I rarely discuss what goes on behind the scenes in the studio. This occasional feature will give you a peek into what I’ve been working on, what’s been inspiring me, what I’m listening to, and other happenings in my classic car and illustration world.

I'll also cover the other side of my business, Studio Marc, sharing insights into my experience as a wayfinding consultant, graphic designer, and online store owner.

But first up is a recent trip I took...

Angoulême’s Circuit des Remparts

In September, I travelled to France to attend the Historique Circuit des Remparts, a celebrated classic car event that has taken place every third weekend of September since 1939. After an overnight ferry from Portsmouth, it was a five-hour (286-mile) drive from Saint-Malo to Angoulême. My friend invited me to join him on the condition that I shared the driving of his Aston Martin Vantage; it would have been rude to refuse.

During the event, the picturesque hilltop town of Angoulême fills with classic car enthusiasts as vintage vehicles race through its ancient, twisting streets, right in the heart of town.

With exhibitions, displays and many bars and restaurants amongst the narrow, cobbled streets, it’s a fabulous destination event. The Circuit has built an impressive international reputation, particularly among Brits—some even call it the biggest British event on the Continent!

The main highlight was Sunday’s races. Around 180 competitors take part, divided into ten race categories based on car type: Bugattis from the 1920s, pre–World War II race cars and Touring, GT, and GTS cars made between 1966 and 1976, to name a few.

The Circuit des Remparts is quite rightly considered a legendary and unmissable event for classic car enthusiasts. The opportunity to witness historic cars racing on a legendary circuit in a beautiful, historic city is highly valued, and it has given me several ideas for future illustrations and artworks.

This is an event that will definitely be in my diary for 2026!