I was honored to return as event artist for my 5th year and the 13th anniversary of Cruisin’ the Boulevard, Petaluma’s Salute to American Graffiti. Creating a painting to become the foundation of the Cruisin’ program and printables is a process I adore and anticipate soon after the boulevard is cleaned up after the previous event. Early in 2017, there were already whispers of inspiration and plans for this year, but life is filled with surprises and sometimes there are very large bumps in the road.
Sonoma County residents will never forget
how the firestorm changed our community. Generations will define their
lives by this catastrophe, remembering where they were and how they were
affected. No matter what the depth of loss, first responders rushing
into the fire zones as thousands rushed out symbolized hope, comfort and
courage during our deep despair. Members of the Cruisin’ the Boulevard
team started wondering how they could acknowledge the fire victims and
first responders in the new event art, so with some collaboration, I
painted another hybrid scene (old and new, altered geography and
characters) with Petaluma’s D Street Firehouse as a glowing companion
for our beloved classic cars and nostalgia for the 2018 Cruisin’ the
Boulevard painting. Together with the hard-working CTB team, we hope this scene satisfies the truest fans of
American Graffiti while reminding us all that some of the greatest stars
drive fire engines, police cars, ambulance, motorcycles, fly
helicopters, airplanes and answer 911 calls. To first responders of all kinds, this year’s Cruisin’ the Boulevard event salutes you!
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