Olivier Mosset 1980 Harley-Davidson Chopper
Olivier Mosset & SYMETRIA editions: The Genesis of a “Rigid” Masterpiece
Marking a new milestone in a long-standing collaboration, Jean-Charles Kien and Symetria Editions recently unveiled their most ambitious project with Olivier Mosset: a 1980 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead custom chopper. Presented during the “1+1=3” exhibition at Kunsthaus Pasquart, this unique piece represents the ultimate fusion of radical minimalism and pure custom tradition.
A Long-Standing Creative Synergy
The partnership between Jean-Charles Kien, SYMETRIA editions, and Olivier Mosset is rooted in years of mutual trust and shared aesthetic exploration. Having previously collaborated on various editions, this motorcycle project was not conceived specifically for the Biel exhibition, but rather as a singular achievement that found its perfect resonance within the museum’s walls.
From Zero to Perfection: A Technical Challenge
Building a unique piece of this magnitude was a formidable challenge. Starting from scratch, every element of the 1980 Shovelhead was meticulously reconsidered. The engine and gearbox were completely rebuilt to new condition, while numerous custom-made parts were engineered specifically for this frame. This is a “Rigid” chopper in its purest form, a tribute to the authentic custom culture that Mosset has championed throughout his life.
The “Chameleon” Signature
The bike’s striking finish is a direct reference to previous projects between Mosset and SYMETRIA. The chameleon paint, notorious for its difficulty to apply, changes hue depending on the light and angle, a characteristic element of Olivier Mosset’s work that challenges the viewer’s perception of volume and surface.
From Paris to the Streets of Tucson
The authenticity of this project stems from a deep personal connection. Jean-Charles Kien and the Symetria team are frequent visitors to the United States, particularly to Mosset’s studio in Tucson, Arizona. This bond is fueled by a shared history within the biker scenes of Paris, New York, and Switzerland, where the motorcycle is not just a prop, but a lifestyle.
A Legacy of “Wheels”
This collaboration follows a prestigious lineage. Olivier Mosset has long integrated motorcycles into the fine art world, notably at the Swiss Institute in NYC. This new chopper echoes themes explored in his book “Wheels”, where the machine is elevated to the status of a “ready-made” sculpture. While Mosset’s paintings often strip away representation, his motorcycles, like this Symetria-built Shovelhead,provide a raw, mechanical counterpoint to the silence of his monochromes.
