conartism: 2014

21.11.14

TAKAKURA KEN

Sad to hear the news that legend Ken Takakura passed away this week. As a young boy I was transfixed with his mesmerising role in The Yakuza. It was the first time the concept of 'The East' was bought into focus for me. His character stayed with me and when I started working in Japan it was not long before the opportunity to use one of his best known images in my work presented itself.

26.7.14

CAPE/COWL/CREATE

I was invited by DC Comics, Warner Bros. and VICE to create my version of Batman's iconic cape and cowl for the Cape/Cowl/Create exhibition, part of Batman's 75th anniversary celebration.

My Lucky 13 character, complete with gold-tooth, takes on the identity of the caped crusader.

His signal shines over City Hall in downtown Los Angeles,

which to me, can feel like Gotham City at times.

The exhibition debuted at this year's San Diego Comic-Con, and will be travelling across the U.S.

Photo by: Todd Williamson/Invision for Warner Brothers/AP Images

22.7.14

ALL CHANGE

25.6.14

WHEELS AND WAVES 2014

The annual Wheels and Waves event, hosted by the Southsiders and held in Biarritz, has now taken on a momentum of its own.

Five thousand people and three thousand bikes were the figures reported. Two bike runs, a hill climb on a closed stretch of public highway (impressive), a static show of brands and bike-related images in the amazing Foch building, as well as nightly entertainment at the Lighthouse and the super chilled Sunday brunch at The Beach House in Anglet gave the attendees plenty to do for the weekend.

There has been much discussion on what this type of event is doing for motorcycle culture. Everyone and everything vying for attention. In my opinion, this type of 'scene' is developing itself, and is not really managed or manageable. It is not too grand to suggest this is actually 'culture' in action.

The opportunity to appreciate a broad spectrum of experiences under one umbrella is an enhancement, not a dilution. It's how best to spend your time. Surrounded by the people and objects that interest you. A rare chance for me to mix work and play.

Thank you for the invite The Southsiders.

3.6.14

WHEELS AND WAVES 2014

Bigger and better this year.

Get organised, I think there will be a few thousand attendees.

The Inimitable Southsiders have all the usual entertainment and ride planned plus

The - PUNKS PEAK - hill climb.
You must register to take part in this.

Also, a 1200sqm Gallery - The Old Garage Foch
Open all weekend.

Exhibition opening - Thursday 12th June 7.00pm.

I am showing some old and new work with a selection of prints for sale.

Come to Biarritz, you will love it.

Gary. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Gloves Off. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Luck 13 Verte. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Norton Jack USA Edition. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Pack Animal. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Speedway. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Two Finger Salute. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

United State. Giclee print. Edition of 100.

Also available at www.conradleach.com/shop/

13.5.14

HELL ON WHEELS TAKES JAPAN

5,500 miles for two 6 minute races (worth every minute and dollar)

Organised chaos (Hell on Wheels style, I'm told)

A chance to actually take a holiday in Tokyo (after 10 years of business trips)

Amazing local hosts (as only Japan can offer)

Amazing group of participants (USA, UK, France and Japan)

The next event in France (don't miss it)

1.5.14

BACK IN TOKYO WITH HELL ON WHEELS

MAY 3RD 2014 HOW will be putting on the first international Hell on Wheels Vintage MX rally, all the fun of the fair, just 5000 miles away.

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