The AETHOS was built In Pursuit of the Perfect Ride.
With a desire to explore possibilities still unknown, Specialized asked Japanese artist Kosuke Masuda to create a work that explores the depths of cycling inspiration that brought to life the Aethos.
Who is Kosuke Masuda?
Kosuke Masuda is an esoteric Buddhist priest and an artist.
Born in a temple in Yokohama, he has loved art since his childhood.
He loves to draw and the early works found in his sketchbooks are truly fascinating. After graduating from The University of Auckland, New Zealand, he went off to train and become a monk-like his father and brother in Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture in 2005.
While experimenting with various methods of painting and forms of expression, he developed his identity through his “works related to bicycles”. In particular, the detailed metal engraving work he has applied to all bicycle parts have been well received both in Japan and overseas for many years.
Bicycle are the voice of his opinion.
People cannot live without relationships with others. Bicycles, whether it’s being fabricated or just when being ridden, do not function without people.
The bicycle has become one of the vessels for him to reconsider, continue to think about and convey the idea of being alive. He enjoys the texture of the bicycle parts that fit in the hands and the unexpected sensation when touched.
Kosuke Masuda interprets the AETHOS as a vessel that actively accepts change, that it is a”living thing”.
The Born of AETHOS x KOSUKE MASUDA
Using his typical technique of “scratch” engraving and patina painting using the oxidation of copper, a “living” work of art using the AETHOS as a vessel was born. Its intuitive and sharp lines, the ones that appear in different colors, all appeal to the depths of the viewer’s heart.
He wants this piece of work to function as a “living thing.” To stay alive, we must stay involved. He wants the work to be touched and used. He wants people to continue to have a lively relationship that accepts any changes and works together.
By using and continuing to be involved, the “bicycle” will continue to live.
