Hot Wheels in Motion | Custom Memorial Ash Commission

The Story Behind This Piece

For Joe

I am honored that his son asked me to create something special that tells Joe’s story. Joe loved the idea of fast cars and “Tokyo drifting” through the mountains, like in the Fast and Furious movies. He didn’t have one in real life, but he lived through his hot‑wheel cars, and these three were his favorites.

I was nervous at first. What if I messed up? But something told me to trust the process and have fun, so I did. It felt like Joe was guiding me with each step.

I took Joe’s loves literally with a layered nighttime mountain background that creates dimension and a fast trail of light for his car. To add my own touch, I encased his ashes in the moon, stars, and road, representing our connection to everything. I used his photos on the billboards to show that he is always watching. It warms my heart to say that.

Creating these designs was a moving experience, and I am grateful to be part of his remembrance. A bittersweet symphony for sure.