My Motorcycle Painting Hanging at Transmission Brewing
A Local Showcase of Art
Transmission Brewing, just steps from my art studio, recently hung one of my largest pieces—a vintage motorcycle painting measuring 5 feet by 7 feet. Displayed on the wall, it stands across from another of my works, a massive 10-foot painting of a travel trailer. Seeing my motorcycle art in such a vibrant community spot reminds me of my own motorcycle experience—or lack thereof.
My Short-Lived Motorcycle Experience
While I never became a true motorcycle rider, I had one intense encounter. As a teenager, a friend took me for a ride on his BSA Cub 250cc motorcycle, and we hit speeds of 75 mph on the freeway. I was wearing shorts, a T-shirt, and flip-flops—a typical teen's confidence in their own invincibility. That terrifying ride made me realize motorcycles weren't for me, and it was enough to keep me away for good. Not long after, my friend crashed his bike, spending a couple of days in the hospital. That experience sealed my fate as a painter of motorcycles, not a rider.
The Art Behind the Motorcycles
Though I’ve never been an avid biker, I’ve always admired motorcycles. There’s something about them that evokes a sense of freedom and adventure. Over the years, I've painted several motorcycle-themed pieces, and the one now at Transmission Brewing is among my favorites. The atmosphere of the brewery itself, located in downtown Ventura, offers the perfect setting for my art. If you're nearby, stop in for a beer and check out the work—even if you’re not into motorcycles, the ambiance and artwork create a unique experience.
The Rock Store: A Motorcycle Icon
Another place that comes to mind when I think of motorcycles is The Rock Store on Mulholland Highway, a famous motorcycle hangout where riders gather. I've visited the spot a few times to watch the bikers and the incredible speed of their rides. While photographers wait to capture action shots, some even hope to catch a crash—yes, that happens too. Despite my distance from the biker world, I appreciate what motorcycles symbolize—freedom, adventure, and, at times, recklessness. That’s why I keep painting them.
Why I Paint Motorcycles
Painting motorcycles allows me to explore their essence—capturing not just their form but the spirit they represent. For me, painting is about conveying that freedom and energy onto the canvas. Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or not, I hope my work inspires a similar sense of adventure and possibility.
