A Story of Legacy and Perseverance

When I arrived at a donor’s home to collect wine corks for my next artwork, I had no idea I’d leave with something far more valuable—a story that would inspire my creation, Still Ridin’.

As I gathered the corks, my eyes landed on an old bicycle wheel resting against the garage wall. Something about it felt significant, so I asked if I could have it. The donor, an older gentleman, smiled and said, “If you take that wheel, you take its story too.”

He went on to tell me about his grandfather, a young man with limited means but an unbreakable spirit. Every day, he rode his bicycle for miles to get to college, no matter the weather, no matter the fatigue. His professor, noticing his relentless discipline, told him, “You should go into professional cycling. If you put as much effort into racing as you do getting here, you could go far.”

Taking those words to heart, his grandfather trained with unwavering determination, pushing himself beyond his limits. Eventually, he made it into the Tour de France, an achievement that transformed not only his life but the future of his entire family. The discipline, willpower, and perseverance he demonstrated became the foundation for the success they enjoy today.

This story struck a chord with me. It reminded me that progress—whether in life, art, or any pursuit—is about resilience. It’s about pushing forward even when the road is tough, even when the climb seems endless. Inspired by this, I created Still Ridin’, a piece that represents movement, endurance, and the unbreakable human spirit.

The bicycle wheel, now woven into my artwork with my signature wine corks, stands as a testament to the idea that perseverance leads to greatness. Still Ridin’ is not just about cycling—it’s about life itself. It’s a reminder to keep going, to strive for something greater, and to leave behind a legacy that inspires others to ride their own journey with purpose.

Still Ridin’ is not just about cycling—it’s about life itself. It’s a reminder to keep going, to strive for something greater, and to leave behind a legacy that inspires others to ride their own journey with purpose.

When I arrived at a donor’s home to collect wine corks for my next artwork, I had no idea I’d leave with something far more valuable—a story that would inspire my creation, Still Ridin’.

Wine Cork + Cork Board + Acrylic + Mixed Media

68in X 40in