In 1976, I converted an unused corner of my grandfather’s construction equipment warehouse into a custom airbrush art and paint shop. The space was small, which made motorcycle tanks the ideal canvas.
Most of the designs were my own. Other times, inspiration came from album covers, posters or photos brought in by customers.
The clientele was primarily, but not exclusively, regional. Many took pride in being gang members. One proudly displayed his front teeth on a chain around his neck. Another landed in prison before her could pick up his finished parts. All paid in cash.
An old Kodak Pocket Instamatic 110 camera was used to take a quick snapshot of each finished paint job just before it left the shop. The photos were consistently blurred and off-center.
