Continuing a "Detroit" tradition Yosemite Sam Radoff (pinstriper of note and builder of many an award winning car) once again has organized the Pinstriper Showcase featuring 150 very talented individuals displaying their talents "live" all the while knowing that the "fruits" of their labor will go to charity. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the daily auctions of the various artwork created on-site at the Detroit Autorama will be donated to the Rainbow Wish Connection Charity.
The hands-on demonstration allows everyone visiting the show to look, bid for their favorite piece, and talk to all of the artists. The pinstriper's are working on various "canvas" such as pictures, motorcycle gas tanks, car parts, automotive side panels, clothing and we have seen a toilet seat and a tool box serving as the desired canvas. Pinstriping isn't a new art form having been around since the 19th century with their artwork visible on wagons and carriages of the day.
Two of the most famous pinstriper's of all time are Ed "Big Daddy" Roth (who is also being celebrated this year as a builder) was well-known for airbrushing and pinstriping t-shirts while at early shows. The wild hand built cars of his came later. Another well-known name and one of iconic status is Ken Howard-you probably recognize his "stage" name of Von Dutch. Dutch's famous "Flying Eyeball" and Roth's "Rat Fink" are instantly recognized and can be seen on everything from hot rods to t-shirts and then some. Both of these legends are now memories but their artwork and the art form they introduced lives on with many a young talented artist keeping the spirit alive.