Riding the Edge: A Perfect Pairing of Sharp’s Precision and the Condor’s Grit
In this fourth edition, we’re diving into the intersection of urban nostalgia and precision engineering. This time, we spotlight John Sharp’s painting Gigio’s Pizzeria, which captures the vibrant energy of a local pizza shop, and the legendary Condor motorcycle, known for its Swiss craftsmanship.
Sharp’s attention to detail in depicting city life mirrors the careful design of the Condor, both embodying the spirit of timeless craftsmanship. Each piece offers a unique take on the beauty found in everyday spaces and well-crafted machines.
John Sharp’s Gigio’s Pizzeria captures the essence of urban life with stunning hyperrealism. Focusing on the details of the weathered yellow awning, bold signage, and glowing "Open" light, Sharp layers color and texture to bring out the charm of a neighborhood pizzeria. His technique blends structure with spontaneity, infusing the scene with city energy and preserving the fleeting beauty of everyday spaces before they fade away.
"To me, there is something beautiful in the abandoned and I feel somehow it is my purpose as an artist to capture them before someone else takes note, and they are gone forever." - John Sharp
More than just a depiction of a storefront, the painting is a tribute to the small businesses that anchor our communities. The vibrant signs and nostalgic details evoke the timeless spirit of neighborhood life, celebrating the heart and soul of these often-overlooked spaces.
In a similar vein, John Sharp’s Hillcrest shadow box sculpture captures the essence of vintage signage, a hallmark of his work. Sharp brings his distinct style to this mixed-media piece, using acrylics and canvas to recreate a miniature that celebrates the Americana aesthetic. With the collaborative touch of his wife, Sara, Hillcrest pays homage to the lasting charm of vintage signs, evoking the nostalgia of a bygone era.
The Condor A250, introduced in 1958, exemplifies Swiss engineering ingenuity post-World War II. Building on its experience from supplying motorcycles to the Swiss Army during the war, Condor designed the A250 to meet the military's need for a lightweight, versatile bike. Equipped with a 249cc, overhead cam engine and a shaft-driven drivetrain, the A250 delivered dependable performance, reaching a top speed of around 60 mph.
Its robust yet practical design, rooted in military utility, made the A250 popular among both military and civilian riders. Produced in limited numbers, it remains a prime example of Swiss craftsmanship in the world of utilitarian motorcycles, leaving a lasting impact on the motorcycle industry.
Both Gigio’s Pizzeria and the Condor A250 transform the ordinary into symbols of craftsmanship and nostalgia. John Sharpe’s painting captures the essence of a local pizzeria, offering a window into the history of small businesses and the communities they serve. Meanwhile, the A250 embodies Swiss engineering precision and practicality. Each piece reflects a desire to preserve and share history, turning everyday subjects into lasting tributes to the people and craftsmanship behind them.
EUROPEAN BIKE NIGHT
at Chauvet Arts | March 27, 2025 @ 6:30 - 8:30P
Join us for European Bike Night with Nashville Moto as we celebrate the closing of Riding the Edge: Passion, Art, and Motorcycles.?
This special evening will showcase four stunning European motorcycles—two Ducatis and two BMWs—on display in the gallery, offering a final tribute to the intersection of art and motorcycle culture. This is a free event!
The gallery is open to the public Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. For more information about CHAUVET Arts, featured artists and upcoming exhibitions, please visit www.chauvetarts.com.
215 Rep John Lewis way N | Fifth Avenue of the Arts | Nashville, TN 37219