If Your Not Crashing, Your Not Going Fast Enough: Le Papillon Studios + JTR Moto
"What is art? To us its just a feeling, a feeling that people get when they see something extraordinary. Something that inspires them to be more than they could ever be. Our exhibition is merely a feeling, a feeling that we get when we ride motorcycles, we just want to share that feeling "
Our goal is simple, we have a love and passion for the ethos of 1960/70s motorcycle culture and especially the impact of “On any Sunday” a film that in some ways set this all in motion. Our mission is to create an atmosphere that not only respects that era but also builds on it, in our own way. This is our platform to express ourselves, showcasing what that heritage means to us.
Our Exhibition shares fragments of our life, our friendship and our obsession for motorcycles. From Meeting in New York 5 years ago to opening up a store together, we hope viewers get merely a glimpse of our excitement for life.
Le Papillon Garage blends cues from the golden era of motocross and classic styles combined with current fashion trends. At the end of the day it’s just all the stuff we like, and we hope you like it too. Daniel Snoeks was raised in Australia, spent 6 years in South Korea working in fashion and media whilst also learning about tattooing, has since taken his craft and brand all over the world.
"I am constantly exposed to vast aspects of the creative industry, which serve as a key catalyst in developing my personal aesthetic. My designs are inspired by the movement of the body, architecture and biodiversity. To broaden my knowledge of their history & culture to impact those around me through my work will always be my main objective. I aim to continue collaborating with artists and brands that uphold appreciation for historical integrity. Inspired by the 1969 French Novel by author Henri Charrière, 'Papillon' has become Daniel's brand and artist identity.
James Tyler Reed (JTR Moto) grew up in a family that never missed their local Supercross. He threw a leg over his first bike, a JR50, at the age of 4 and has never stopped riding. Born in the Arizona desert, motocross was always a constant in his life but he later switched disciplines and went on to compete in national road racing on both 125’s and 600’s. The decision to pursue a career in art instead of racing has led him here. An avid photographer, tattoo artist and visual creature he’s developed a broad scope of design. Our bespoke motorcycles are thoughtfully crafted by James, he has cut his teeth, both literally and figuratively, on race tracks around the United States. He eventually sharpened his craft by working under Peter Boggia of Moto Borgotaro (based in Brooklyn, NY). James worked for many years under Peter where he serviced, restored and repaired some of the rarest bikes on the planet.
Le Papillon Garage blends fashion, design and vintage motorcycles in one beautifully curated space. Esteemed tattoo artist Daniel Snoeks and motorsport entrepreneur James Tyler Reed teamed up to bring handpicked artifacts to the Arts District of Los Angeles. Inspired by their respective passions and life experiences, a carefully curated set of rare motorsport finds, avant-garde fashion brands, vintage clothing and niche New York jewelry are available to shop in their showroom.