I recently had the honor of acquiring Tom Fugle's Leather Bag collection. It was a chance moment that I could not pass up. Along with it came a great responsibility to put these beautiful handcrafted pieces out into the motorcycle community, not only in the manner of displaying them for all to see, but also in honoring his history and his legacy.
It has been 9 years since my dear friend passed away. He was as authentic as they come; a real deal biker, 1% El Forastero Founding Member, a leatherworker, an artist, an innovator, but most importantly my friend. I see his inspiration coming through in choppers built to this day. He was an artist in the truest and rawest sense. He was at the forefront of how motorcycles could and would be built...as Choppers. Not only did he take great pride in the art he created but also in the way he presented it.
His attention to detail was next level and it's demonstrated in all of the leather pieces. Most of the leather collection dates back to the 1970s and 1980s. He attended motorcycle shows and set up shop, from large events with thousands of people to small alleyways where he could avoid 'paying the Man'. His displays were impressive. His leather creations were well organized and neatly showcased. He was proud of his work, even into his old age. I was able to witness firsthand and help at shows we did together in Arizona and California. The leather creations spoke for themselves, as well as his rock art, his multispectral iridescent jewelry and most importantly his chopper builds, which were mind blowing.
From his most popular chopper scenes created by he and Dave Mann, the well known vehicle & motorcycle brands, the dreamy & comical characters to the many cool landscapes and designs…all were creatively stamped onto his leather belts, wallets, bags, buckles and more. All are professionally crafted and made strong and durable to last many years. Above all, he knew what looked cool, plain and simple!
When I gaze at the collection of leather I am amazed at the time and effort it must have taken him to create so many handcrafted designs. I am proud to own a small piece of his history. I only hope that those interested in purchasing a piece of his art will appreciate it just the same.
Jeremiah
SPECIAL THANKS
I'd like to thank my good friend Nemo from Minneapolis who was extremely close with Tom for many years. If it wasn't for him The Leather Bag Legacy might have been lost. Also, my good friend Mike Kerr for being instrumental in making this happen. A big thank you to Dan at Fugle Files for preserving Tom's photographic legacy and sharing the history.
Mucho LOVE and Respect my BROS!
RIDE CHOPPERS OR FUCK OFF
**There will be more inventory added as items begin to sell out.**