News

My solo show at the Elmhurst Artists' Guild Gallery at the Elmhurst Art Museum was a great success. The "Motorcycle As Metaphor" show ran from July 12–Aug 15, 2008, and focused on the essense of motorcycle riding. The show was partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency. Thanks to everyone who helped make the show a success. And, Thank you to all those who came to see the show.

The Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, awarded Wes Baker with a grant used toward his show, "Motorcycle as Metaphor." Thank you to the Illinois Arts Council for their support.

The Elmhurst Press ran a front-page feature on Wes. Read the article in "In the News."

Motorcycles and Fine Art

Motorcycles and fine art share a common power: both objects can stir the human soul. A rider experiences the weather, the environment, and feelings of excitement and control on a motorcycle; a viewer of art can feel the joys and risks of the ride through a canvas. I strive to capture these emotional interactions in my paintings.

My first ride was on my uncle's old Pan Head Harley; I was about seven years old. The sound and excitement of that machine will stay with me forever. In my artwork, the motorcycle becomes a metaphor for life and expression. My goal is to bring riders and non-riders alike into the realm of riding a motorcycle. I strive to capture the soul of riding. Viewers of my paintings can take away a philosophical view of life as a journey, and make the best of their own rides through life. Many of my paintings are shown in my Gallery page. I am also a member of the Elmhurst Artists' Guild and the Chicago Artist Coalition.