Monday, November 24, 2014

A Rolling Sculpture Ready For The Chronicles Of Riddick

Rafik Kaissi and his unique RK Bearing

Indian Larry on one of the Biker Buildoff's on Discovery Channel talked about how building custom motorcycles employed all of the arts into one. The use of engineering, fabrication, design, painting and sculpture, all working together as a higher art form. To be honest, he was completely right. Not every bike was made to be loved by everyone and nor should a bike always be made to fit into some category. There are enough builders doing that, but to break new ground and do something that is a unique vision, whether or not its meant to be a daily freeway rider is a true iconoclast and free thinker.

What is interesting about the bikes of Rafik Kaissi is that his bikes aren't for sale and they are all from scrap parts. At first glance they look torn from the pages of a science fiction movie and that is the beauty within them. They are completely in their own category and are more or less rolling works of art. I think Mad Max would be proud and so to are quite a few comic book illustrators who now have a few futuristic vehicles to pull some ideas from. DIY is alive and well with Rafik. 

"There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterward you can remove all traces of reality. - Pablo Picasso"

Huge bearing races on a custom motorcycle wheel

Rafik Kaissi and his unique RK Bearing