Brandon Jones | Dollywood & Nashville | Mixed Media on Canvas | 58 x 44 x 1.25 in | $10,500 each
In the third installment of our series, we examine the dynamic interplay of artistic expression and mechanical ingenuity. This edition spotlights Brandon Jones’ evocative mixed-media work alongside the groundbreaking 1968 Suzuki T500 Cobra.
Jones’ bold, narrative-driven style mirrors the Cobra’s revolutionary design—both defy convention, embracing movement, transformation, and raw energy. His surreal, fragmented figures echo the speed and power of Suzuki’s high-performance two-stroke, a machine that set new standards in its era.
Brandon Jones’ works, such as Dollywood and Nashville, push the boundaries of contemporary figuration, merging Western iconography with surreal imagery. Dollywood features a bleeding cowboy and a masked outlaw, exploring themes of identity, violence, and mythology. The contrasting figures are brought to life with bold linework, earthy tones, and expressive drips, creating a dreamlike tension that bridges nostalgia and rebellion.
"I strive to capture emotions and narratives within my pieces. I am deeply influenced by my love for art, evident in my personal art collection, and my passion for exploring various cultures through travel." - Brandon Jones
Nashville builds on this style, depicting a fragmented gunslinger that symbolizes duality and transformation. The warm desert backdrop anchors the piece in personal and cultural narratives, while Jones’ mixed media adds texture and depth. The "Nashville" inscription across the figure’s chest ties the work to Jones’ journey as a Nashville local, blending history, identity, and imagination
Suzuki Cobra, 1968 | Engine: 492cc air-cooled, two-stroke | Private Collector: Mike Pierce
The 1968 Suzuki T500 Cobra marks a key moment in Suzuki's history, introducing the brand to the big-bore two-stroke market. Produced as a one-year model, it was soon renamed the T500 Titan, making the original Cobras rare and highly collectible. With its 500cc engine, Posi-Force lubrication system, and torque-induction exhaust, the Cobra offered reliability and smooth performance, outpacing many British rivals. Popular among early café racers, the T500 became a symbol of custom performance, blending speed, style, and high-performance capabilities.
Suzuki’s iconic T500 Cobra and Brandon Jones’ compelling artworks both highlight the intersection of innovation and artistry. The T500 Cobra, with its groundbreaking design and advanced features, represents Suzuki’s commitment to high-performance engineering and a new era of motorcycle culture. Its speed, style, and technical mastery have made it a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts and custom builders, solidifying its place in motorcycle history.
Brandon Jones’ emotionally charged works, like Dollywood and Nashville, push the boundaries of contemporary art with expressive forms and layered imagery. His fusion of surrealism and symbolism invites reflection on identity, violence, and myth, much like how the T500 Cobra redefined the motorcycle world. Both Suzuki’s engineering legacy and Jones’ artistic vision challenge our perceptions, urging us to view craftsmanship and creativity as dynamic forces that continuously reshape our world.