Michael Knepper
has done it again!
As we approach the 10th anniversary of 9-11, we are reminded once again of the incredible heroism and bravery exhibited by the New York firefighters, police officers, and many others involved that fateful day.
To commemorate this significant occasion, world renowned artist Michael Knepper has created yet another masterpiece called “Heroes”. It depicts a group of riders going to ground zero. Under the vision are three of our heroes amidst the burning rubble of that tragic day. The number 343 appears in the image a few of times, signifying the number of firefighters who died that day while trying to get thousands out of the burning buildings.
I would go so far as to say it includes those of us who are also “heroes” of the every day kind. Those that ride for just causes, those of us who ride for freedom, those of us who believe in America and what we stand for. For we are all “Brothers in Arms” helping one another, encouraging and supportive,especially when we feel the sting of the terrorist or the enemy breathing down our back.
What you may not see in this painting, but I do, are the tears streaming down the faces in quiet resolve that this tragedy should never be allowed to happen again.
You already know Michael for works like "Running with Wolves"
Michael Knepper is a world famous artist and an avid motorcyclist, Knepper bought a Fat Boy Harley Davidson 10 years ago and spends his leisure time riding when he isn’t painting. He has been on many motorcycle events like Free Willy Run and Magic Bike Rally and Hamburg Harley Days as well as Sturgis and Daytona. In 2008 he was commissioned to create a calendar called "Out of Hell", hence the horns in several of his paintings. Michael Knepper is inspired by bikers right out of the biker scene and he has chosen bike builders to be his primary subjects. Among them are Paul Cox and Keino of Indian Larry fame, Russell Mitchell of Exile and from Germany, Fred Codlin and the husband-wife team of Tomas and Dani Habermann.
Michael Knepper has worked as an illustrator and painter since 1982. Customers include Siemens, Mercedes, Mustang Jeans, Bayer and Adidas.
In 2009, he released what will certainly become known as his signature piece, "Spirit of Sturgis". The canvas version sold out in nine short months.
Knepper is now the official artist for Orange County Choppers which will lead to a significant body of work, including a second 9/11 work featuring Paul as well as the three fire fighters raising an American flag amidst all the rubble, once again defining the resolve and strength of our spirit. Michael likes to work as an artist- free, spontaneous and creative.
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