Vanguard has put together some seriously beautiful bikes; just goes to show you that there are more than just a few simple, practical ways to weld metal poles together to create a mean of transportation. The attention to detail on these bikes is meticulous in the effort to make a moving work of art, and also in keep biking as sustainable as possible by using recycled steel and by working with local craftsmen and mechanics.
The customizable frames range from what you see every day on the street, to the vintage the Penny Farthing model (big-front-wheel, tiny-back-wheel), with many modern variations in between these two extremes. The lines that the steel bars create are at times surprising, leaving negative space in unexpected areas, and in combination with the warm color schemes, including a lot of soft browns, golds, and off white palates, the bikes really make you wonder whether or not you’d be comfortable leaving your super stylish two-wheeler locked up on the street while you’re at work.
You might want to lug it up the stars or in the elevator with you if you want to see it in one piece at 5 o’clock – it’s always the beautiful bikes that end up twisted and with missing wheels, and Vanguards bikes are at the top of the design pack. These bikes need to be treated like the works of art that they are.
Sept. 10, 2013
Shenkar
Parsons
Strate College
British Higher School of Art and Design
LOFT 42
World Architecture Festival
