CONCORD, N.C. -- Beside the mountainous concrete temple known as Charlotte Motor Speedway sits a modest blue and white structure just a stone's throw from the main gates of the track. Despite their vast difference in size, both structures house a testament to NASCAR, its drivers and to the fans that support them.

Seeing the track for the first time can be awe inspiring, even for the most well-traveled race fan. And meeting Sam Bass at his gallery next door to the speedway can provide an equal experience of exhilaration, especially for those who share his passion for racing and art.

“

Not only are you getting a chance to get to hang out with your heroes, you're getting a chance to influence how the sport looks.

”

-- SAM BASS

At first glance, the sport's most famous artist wears a smile as long as the grandstands. Bass shakes hands while using both of his and leans in to offer a pat on the back. He is a humble and authentic person -- the kind that quickly puts a stranger at ease by using an easy-going demeanor to set the tone of the moment.

As customers and old friends stroll in to say hello before the start of Saturday's All-Star Race, Bass takes time with each of them, offering two groups a tour of his gallery in between an interview and photo session. To say that he is a people person would be an understatement.

Bucking the age-old stereotype some folks have about artists being eccentric, disorganized and just a little bit left of normal, Bass goes to great lengths to keep his house in order. Every painting, drawing or photograph in his gallery hangs perfectly on the wall.

Bass' studio houses hundred if not thousands of pens and markers, neatly placed in separate cups. The only asymmetrical point of reference to be found lies within the few markers currently being used to create his next masterpiece. Bass has surrounded himself with drawings and paintings of his heroes -- mostly drivers and musicians -- while photos of his children demand equal places of prominence strung throughout the building.

As a music lover, his collection of guitars sit perfectly on display behind streak-free Plexiglas and even the room that handles shipping and handling -- a busy place during race weekend, to say the least - continues the theme of organization and harmony found elsewhere by visitors. (Continued)