London born artist, Ray Masters’ art career began in 1986 when he was “discovered” by Swatch having hand painted some t-shirts for an Action Sports trade show. Ray’s flamboyant oversize images were such a huge success that he was hired by the famous watch brand to design many of their product groups. This huge opportunity encouraged Ray to make art and graphic design his full time business.
Following this incredible boost to his career Ray purchased one of the first Graphics Computers and everything moved into high gear. Within one year his groundbreaking computer generated design work was being utilized by some of the worlds foremost sports fashion houses including Elho Freestyle, Wilson Sports, Swatch, Ellesse and Reebok. During these first few years Masters also created artwork and designs for hundreds of International sporting events, athletes and sports teams. By the early 90's he was one of the most prolific artists in US Motor Sports.
Ray began painting as his graphic design star was rising and originally sold his canvases to many top athletes, industrialists and sports organizations.
His combination of surrealism and abstract expressionism developed into a unique vision of the world. His art has been featured in shows in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Palm Beach, Vancouver BC and Maui. His collectors include entertainment and sports superstars, business and political leaders and art lovers of all kinds.
In a multi page feature about Ray's Automotive artwork, Automobile Magazine's Editor, Larry Crane wrote:- “Extraordinary art of our beloved subject is rare. The world of automotive art is awash in plain car pictures – some of which are extraordinarily well accomplished, to be sure – but interesting concepts don’t appear often.” "Ray Masters, and his work is outrageously different from the ‘regular’ automotive art."
Ray has made his home on the island of Maui for the past 32 years, which has instilled a deep feeling to his work that is inspired by his personal life:- the ocean, music, his beloved pet cats and super-dog, Sevin. But cars and racing are still subjects that are often seen on his easel.
You can come enjoy Ray's collection at Freeborne Fine Art in The Shops at Wailea, Maui.
