Nothing And A Dream: Angel Claw Goes Full Bore!
By Jeff Alexander
A simple visit to her stepfather's farm led to Montana Wilson's discovery of moto culture, as she became enamored by the creativity, chopper subculture, and detailed artistry that has since transformed into an international community.
"My stepfather 'Chicken' builds and designs rat rods and is really into bikes. It was inspiring to see how his mind worked. He had amazing relics, memorabilia, and photos of awesome rides and seeing all that community was inspiring. The vehicle that really jump started me was his 1936 panel truck which was painted by an artist from Florida. It also had the name Von Dutch painted on the mirror and that is when he taught me about pinstriping and yes, it was painted by the artist himself," reflected Wilson.
Embracing her newfound inspiration, Wilson dove into the challenging world of pinstriping. Seeking to push her creative boundaries while upholding the traditions of kustom kulture, Wilson tirelessly worked to learn the craft and ultimately build the foundation for Angel Claw Studio.
"Pinstriping is so rewarding and yet so deeply frustrating when learning. I would practice on glass. Start a design, wipe it off, try again and keep pushing. I moved on to aluminum sheet metal and the whole community has been supportive and awesome. I would watch videos and talk to as many artists as I could. I really have to thank the artist in Oklahoma that goes by the handle Inkfish, he sent me brushes because I could only afford cheap stuff while I was learning," laughed Wilson.
Channeling the DIY chopper community with homage to the '60s and '70s bold colors within her work, Wilson cites meeting and eventually painting for her stepfather's friend as a watershed moment that served as the springboard for Angel Claw Studio.
" 'Chicken's' friend Billy Bob, who's father owned Knucklehead North in Minnesota was visiting from Florida and I would bug him to paint his helmet and finally he gave in. Working on that in the garage I was suddenly able to get my line work down and created something rad that I am still proud of today! I think the ability to surprise yourself can be so powerful. Before that I was painting and selling koozies, customized clothing, and wallets at local bike nights but after finishing that helmet, I knew I was capable of more," shared Wilson.
Montana unabashedly states she refuses to slow down with any endeavor, and instead, goes full bore 'like a fire being lit under my ass.' Despite recently launching Angel Claw Studio, she once again embraced her ambition and decided it was time to learn how to wrench on bikes and build her own chopper. Casting aside feelings of intimidation, Wilson was determined to see her project to the end.
Feature continues below sponsor ad...
"Like anything new, there can be a feeling of intimidation but I don't do anything slow! It actually began as a friendly build-off competition between me and Chicken but I did some second-guessing during days I was working and freezing in the garage in Ohio while he was down in Florida," laughed Wilson.
Built on the foundation of a '92 Harley Evo 883, Wilson sourced a hard tail frame from Lowbrow Customs, which proved to be a seamless fit. The bike itself was a two-owner, low mileage example and remained garaged, proving to be a great foundation for a novice chopper builder.
"I started with nothing and a dream because I didn't grow up wrenching. The first big issue was the carb because someone had drilled it out and it just ran so damn cold! I learned a lot from mentorship, videos, my brother, and my husband. The other issue was sourcing periwinkle blue paint. So many people tried to help and send swatches but I eventually found 1969 Fiat periwinkle blue and it was perfect. I learned patience and finishing was so rewarding!" said Wilson.
Learning how to wrench and complete her first build was admittedly a humbling experience, but Wilson was undeterred and even sees another project in her future.
"I would want something with an auxillary tank so I can ride longer distances but for now, I am putting all my energy into Cult Boheme, a lifestyle collection I founded to cultivate a community that celebrates individuality and alternative culture. It explores themes like choppers, style, art, and travel blogs. We're just getting started but if you're drawn to nonconformity and nostalgic old school style, come be part of the movement," concluded Wilson.
https://www.angelclawstudio.com/home
Angel Claw on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/angel__claw/