Unless you were there, unless you were at the funerals, unless you were near ground zero weeks later, you and "the vet" will never understand just how distasteful the artwork really is.

Do you want to show patriotism and support of our troopers and service men and women in the artwork, if so, you missed that message 100%. No matter who wants to pat you on the back, I sorry to say, they don't get it either as they were not there.

Bill S.

Quote Originally Posted by HOTRODPAINT View Post
If this is too upsetting for the forum, I don't object to taking it down.

I had sent the question out to many of my car buddies, and I posted it on two forums. I found that about 80% who responded liked it... mostly for the patriotism involved... and some saw it as a tribute to those who died. The other 20% disliked it either because it was not traditional car art... or they critiqued the concept on the details chosen... or for some of the negative feelings about the attack that were voiced here.

The owner, being a Vet, chose it for the patriotic impact, and as a tribute. At least I can give him some input on what to expect from enthusiasts. Thanks guys. I've been doing this for others for over 40 years... but I am still learning about the public's perceptions. {:-)
Being of strong Christian principals (a little condescending on your part to think that only Christian principals are above all others), would you airbrush a bloody Jesus nailed to a cross on the hood of that Corvette?

There are reasons for everything in life, yet at the same time, there are reasons why I used to refuse to do certain custom paint work due to my own morals. Did I lose customers because of it, sure, but I'll bet I gained far more by not doing it.

In this case, repaint the hood, explain to your client that this is in such poor taste (as the strong Christian that you are) that you cannot sleep with yourself at night by allowing it out of your shop.

A strong christian would never have painted what you have, so perhaps your christian faith is not as strong as you make it out to be.

Bill S.


Quote Originally Posted by HOTRODPAINT View Post
I can understand that for people close to the disaster it would have been a traumatizing event!

I realized decades ago that my job is to help others take a concept that they decided on, and get it onto their project.

I do have limits to what I will do for an owner. I have always drawn the line at total nudity, and demonic subjects. An example would be skulls. I've done them a lot. If they are symbols for death or even comedy, no problem. I would however refuse if they wanted horns or fangs, or if they displayed evil in other ways.

One thing I did appreciate about his concept was that, following such a horrific happening, it told a story of the actions taken as a result of the attack. America might be built on loving and understanding Christian principles... but we also will not allow others to brutalize our country without paying a substantial price. I agreed to do this for that patriotic reason. (I lost a nephew over there to a roadside bomb.)

"Cars as art" ...it is sometimes personal.