These Legendary Artists Merge Art and Cycling in Extraordinary Ways

We have long thought of bicycles as works of art, and, yes, there is something magical about cycling itself. But for some, cycling transcends the realm of sport and leisure, becoming a source of inspiration for artistic expression. Here, we delve into the captivating world where art and cycling collide, exploring the rich tapestry of bike-themed art.

Wheels of Inspiration

The marriage of art and cycling is not a recent phenomenon; it has been an integral part of cycling culture for over a century. Artists have often found themselves drawn to the graceful lines and mechanical intricacies of bicycles, creating an eclectic range of artworks that pay homage to this two-wheeled wonder.

Painting the Road: One of the most prevalent forms of bike-themed art is painting. The canvas becomes a playground for artists to capture the essence of cycling. Whether it’s the serene landscapes cyclists traverse, the adrenaline-fueled energy of competitive racing, or the romanticism of a lone rider on a scenic route, painters have translated these moments into masterpieces. Artists like Edgar Degas, who famously painted “The Star,” and David Hockney, who explored the visual dynamics of cycling in “A Bigger Splash,” have left an indelible mark on the world of art through their bicycle-inspired works.

Over here at Momentum, we have long loved the work of late, great Canadian artist Greg Curnoe from London, Ontario. Curnoe featured bicycles often in his paintings including his beloved Mariposa bicycles — a small Canadian bike brand founded in Toronto.

“Mariposa 10 Speed No 2” by Greg Curnoe

Sculpting Motion

Beyond the canvas, sculptors have also been inspired by the bicycle. Sculpture provides a unique platform to explore the three-dimensional aspects of cycling. Contemporary artists like Ai Weiwei have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with bicycle sculptures. His piece titled “Forever Bicycles,” (photo at top) featuring thousands of interconnected bicycles, challenges our perception of space and structure, serving as both a visual spectacle and a commentary on the changing landscape of urban China.

Also from London, Ontario, artist Murray Favro, a contemporary of Curnoe’s, also featured bicycles in his work. Favro’s original bicycle sculptures reimagine how bicycles might operate in a unique and compelling fashion that is at once both futuristic with a vintage sensibility in works such as “Future Bicycle”.

“Bicycle Chain Modification, 2017” by Murray Favro (Michael Gibson Gallery)

Street Art

Perhaps the perfect medium for exploring bicycles is street art. After all, bicycles are of the streets, have a distinct culture, and some issues relating to the intersection of bicycles and city streets can get very political. So it is no surprise that there is some incredible street art depicting bicycles.

Ernest Zacharevic is a street artist from Lithuania who has created some incredible pieces, but his most iconic bicycle work is the interactive image below that he created for the George Town Festival.

The work below by street artist Blu is dubbed Car Crusher and is located on the side of a highway embankment in Milan, Italy.

Car Crusher

The street art of BMX can be found throughout Montpellier. And it’s amazing.

Photography’s Ode to the Bicycle

Photography, with its ability to capture the fleeting moments of cycling, has created a visual diary of the sport’s evolution. Early cycling photographs documented the adventurous spirit of riders embarking on long journeys, while contemporary photographers like Jeff Koons, with his “Easyfun-Ethereal” series, have experimented with digital manipulation to create abstract yet evocative representations of bicycles. These snapshots of cycling culture serve as a window into the changing fashions, technologies, and social dynamics surrounding this beloved pastime.

And, of course, Koons’ sublime “Bike Rack” sculpture sold for $8 million and is on display in New York City at 477 Madison Ave.

Cycling as Performance Art

Cycling is not just a subject of art; it can also be a medium for artistic expression. Street artists and cyclists collaborate to turn cityscapes into their canvases, using the urban environment as a backdrop for daring and imaginative bike performances. These ephemeral creations blur the line between sport and art, challenging our notions of what is possible on two wheels.

We have seen this most recently in Toronto, Canada where a bicycle advocate turned to performance art, donning a FIFA referee’s uniform and handing out yellow and red cards for bike lane infractions.

Martin Reis in Toronto

Experiencing Bike-Themed Art

For those interested in immersing themselves in the world of bike-themed art, there are numerous ways to do so. Museums around the world often feature exhibitions dedicated to cycling, showcasing a diverse range of artworks that celebrate the sport. Additionally, cycling events and festivals often incorporate art installations, further emphasizing the intrinsic connection between these two worlds.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of art and cycling is a testament to the enduring allure of both forms of human expression. From the romanticism of a leisurely ride through the countryside to the intensity of competitive racing, the bicycle continues to inspire artists and creators to push the boundaries of their craft. Whether it’s through painting, sculpture, photography, street art, or performance art, the world of bike-themed art is a captivating journey that invites us to explore the beauty and complexity of the cycling experience.