Motorcycle Artist Rocks Two-Axle World (Continued)
The Soul of Motorcycling is Demonstrated Through Builders,
Painters and Fine Artists Such as Chris Kallas
By Bandit
Chris Kallas art available in the Black Market.
In December 1975, Chris received his first telescope from his
parents and his interest in space flourished. He studied science
fiction and astrology at California State University Long Beach
while working as a delivery boy for his uncle’s video equipment supply.
Chris adapted class assignments to space art themes, much to the dismay
of his instructors. In his senior year he had two works displayed in the
university's annual show, which featured the best work in the art department.
These two works also won awards in the Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles Annual Show.
He was influenced by the work of David Mann from Easyriders and
Chesley Bonestell, the master of space art.
In 1980 he moved to Huntington Beach, Calif., and received a bachelor’s
degree in illustration. He quit his video company job in 1981 and picked up a small amount of freelance artwork.
In November 1981, his then-girlfriend Nancy set up a visit with
Chesley Bonestell at his studio in Carmel to discuss his work with him.
Six years later they visited and celebrated Bonestell's 98th birthday.
In 1983, he and Nancy married and moved to Redondo Beach. They bought a
home in south Torrance in 1986.
Chris spent 13 years working as an illustrator for Hughes Aircraft Co.
He created detailed renderings of the space shuttle, communications satellites
and other spacecraft for public relations, marketing and aerospace shows.
His artwork was commissioned for use in Hughes' corporate headquarters and
displayed throughout the company. After leaving Hughes, he spent 4.5 years
restoring his home and rebuilding his bikes. Two ongoing bike projects include
a 1972 Sportster and 1948 Flathead.
For his art, he uses vinyl-based paints and does water-based art, such as
gouache on Strathmore paper, and paints graphics and art on the
sides of motorcycles. In addition, he sells his own series of fine art,
limited-edition prints. For information, call him at (310) 316-2790.
The crew at Bikernet is looking forward to having Chris'
art on an up coming motorcycle project.
Chris Kallas art available in the Black Market.
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