Unleashing Artistic Rebellion: A Conversation with Chopper Artist Buster Wise

The world of art is a canvas waiting to be splashed with colors and life. For some, that canvas becomes a roaring chopper, a symbol of freedom and rebellion. Meet the creative force behind the vibrant and dynamic illustrations in the Kustom Kulture scene, the chopper enthusiast who took the top spot in Gnarly Magazine’s Rat Fink Art Contest – the one and only, the chopper artist extraordinaire.
“Sure it is! Winning against such strong competitors is a big thing. To this day I can’t believe how many of my friends and followers supported me,” the artist exclaims when asked about the thrilling victory. Indeed, a victory in such a prestigious contest must be an unforgettable experience, one that propels an artist to greater heights.
In the land of Poland, a burgeoning Kustom Kulture and Chopper scene thrives. A vibrant group of individuals spend their leisure time customizing their cars with impressive talent. The country boasts some exceptional airbrush artists and pinstripe masters. There are two hot rod shows each year, providing a platform for these enthusiasts to showcase their extraordinary creations. However, when it comes to choppers, there is still a rarity. The artist himself acknowledges this but finds solace in the passionate chopper freaks he calls friends, sharing their love for the vintage two-wheel wonders.
The journey of an artist often begins in the early years. “I have been drawing since early childhood. Everything and all over everything,” the artist chuckles. As a teenager, he was inspired by B-movie horrors, punk music, and the laid-back California skateboard vibe. These influences shaped his unique style, which continues to evolve with each new creation.
The love for choppers and custom motorcycles stems from a significant figure in his life – his late uncle Hans from Germany. A true biker, Hans introduced him to the world of choppers, sparking a passion that never waned. Since then, choppers, bobbers, and old-school motorcycles have remained at the heart of his artwork, breathing life into his iconic skeletons and lowbrow humor.
“You don’t get to see them very often in Europe. Mostly you’ll see stock cruisers in black matte with very seriously looking bikers dressed in black leather jackets. Choppers give you freedom of expression, being real, being yourself,” he remarks when asked about the allure of motorcycles. To him, motorcycles represent freedom, independence, and rebellion, and choppers embody the spirit of an untamed lifestyle.
Creating a piece of art is an intricate process. The artist emphasizes the importance of research, browsing the internet, and seeking inspiration from various sources. Once a concept takes shape, the sketching begins, followed by a detailed refining process. Depending on the medium, the artist masterfully crafts his iconic chopper-themed illustrations, exuding energy and life.
Though not yet having had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow artists, the chopper artist is open to new creative ventures. His works have drawn inspiration from the vibrant B-movie horror movie posters of the ’80s and the stylings of Jeral Tidwell and Dirty Donny. Their influence is evident in his use of dynamic compositions and captivating colors that resonate with the chopper community.
For the artist, growth is an ongoing journey of trial and error. Experimenting with new techniques, perspectives, and lighting is essential to his artistic evolution. Challenging oneself constantly ensures the creation of captivating, multidimensional artworks that leave a lasting impact.
What started as a personal passion has now become a source of collaborations with iconic brands like Biltwell, Harley Davidson Poland, and Red Bull. Working with these renowned names has been both exciting and fulfilling, allowing the artist to showcase his unique style to a broader audience.
Aspiring artists are urged to embrace patience and determination on their creative journey. Each step is a part of discovering one’s distinctive style. And most importantly, they should never shy away from sharing their art with the world.
In the end, the chopper artist’s passion for art and choppers has brought color and life to the Kustom Kulture scene. With every stroke of his brush or swipe on his iPad, he continues to inspire others to find their artistic freedom and embrace the rebellious spirit of the chopper lifestyle. So, gear up, hop on, and ride into the world of chopper art – a journey that awaits the fearless and the imaginative.
Find Buster Wise online: