The Artist
Kate Cook is the creator of ärtəˈmō-tiv® art, her inventive approach to custom painting that uses automotive enamels—originally designed for painting cars—on metal and canvas panels. Her work blends nostalgic Americana with colorful contemporary twists, reflecting the timeless appeal and enduring spirit of classic automobiles. Whether it's a luxury custom painting or a personalized commission, Asphalt Canvas can transform your story into vibrant, one-of-a-kind art piece.
California to Texas
A California native, Kate pursued her artistic journey through a scholarship to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas. After studying abroad in Italy, she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art in 2013. Growing up, Kate built her 1966 Jeepster Commando with her dad, a project that ignited her passion for both cars and art—two interests that have shaped her creative journey. Today, Kate calls Central Texas home, where she lives with her husband, Morgan-owner of AC Oil & Supply-their son, Orin, and their dog, Milner.
Podcast for Creatives
Kate hosts the top 100-rated podcast, The Curated Craftsmen™, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. This interview style podcast is designed to help creative entrepreneurs elevate their craft and business. She also shares her insights through The Artisan Edge, a mini podcast segment and blog where craftsmen & artisans can gain an edge up in their creative pursuits.
Licensing & Press
Kate is a licensed Rat Fink™ Artist with over a decade of pinstriping experience. This allows her to number and sign her pieces alongside Ed “Big Daddy” Roth’s signature, connecting her with Rat Fink collectors world wide. Her work is internationally recognized, featured across numerous print/media platforms, and held in private collections nationwide. Kate has collaborated with major automotive and lifestyle brands, solidifying her reputation in both automotive and contemporary art.
Philanthropy
Kate is deeply committed to supporting organizations that honor veterans and help children. She uses her creative talents to give back to the community, aligning her business with causes that reflect her values. Through her work, Kate aims to make a positive impact, leveraging her art to serve others and give back to those who need it most.
Why I Drive - Hagerty Media
Pinstriping Artist Finds Adventure in Her 1966 Jeepster Commando
Season 4, Episode 40 | Kate & her husband's shared love for the open road fuels their connection and inspires the custom automotive art Kate creates.
Style
I began my artistic journey working in watercolor, ink, and oil paint. But as my love for Americana, aviation nose art, and historic cars deepened, so did my desire to push beyond tradition. This led me to experiment - melding the time-honored fundamentals of fine art with the very same paint used on automobiles. The result was something unexpected: a bold, glossy, and enduring style that seamlessly bridges the worlds of fine art and automotive craftsmanship.
Signature
I call this signature approach ärtəˈmō-tiv® art, a renovative practice of custom painting using automotive enamels. These paints, formulated for the road, bring unparalleled vibrancy, durability, and depth to my work on canvas and metal. Through rich color, bold linework, and a touch of nostalgia, I translate personal stories into striking visual statements.
Influence
My influences range from the masterful storytelling of Norman Rockwell and Edward Hopper, to the fearless color of Georgia O'Keeffe and the ingenuity of Ed "Big Daddy" Roth. Through my work, I aim to preserve the legacy of artistic skilled trades while challenging perceptions of both the fine art market and the automotive paint industry.
Mission
My mission at Asphalt Canvas is to create timeless works of art that celebrate the intersection of craftsmanship, history, and innovation. Each piece is designed to ensure that these stories, much like the road itself, never fade.
