Born in 1940 in the suburban enclave of Temple City, just outside of Los Angeles, Tom Kelly emerged as a pivotal figure during the thriving era of modern pinstriping in the early 1950s. His artistic journey commenced at a tender age, marked by an innate fascination with drawing that led him to become a recognized name in the custom car culture.
At the age of 13, Tom’s artistic lineage became apparent as he partnered with none other than his illustrious grandfather, DZ Crozier, also known as the Baron. The Baron harnessed Tom’s prodigious skills in dashboards and intricate details, while simultaneously entrusting him with the nuanced task of striping entire vehicles. These formative years were a whirlwind of creativity, as the landscape of automotive aesthetics underwent transformative shifts.
Tom Kelly’s journey intersected with the rise of the Kustom Kulture movement, where modern pinstriping took center stage. Alongside luminaries like Von Dutch, Tommy the Greek , and the Baron, Tom played a pivotal role in propelling this scene into the limelight. The Baron’s team of artists, with Tom as a key member, tirelessly worked on an impressive portfolio of 8 to 10 cars each day, setting a benchmark for skill and craftsmanship.
A turning point arrived when Tom’s casual experimentation with striping on a customer’s pickup tailgate caught the discerning eye of the Baron. The Baron’s directive to leave the design in place became the spark that ignited Tom’s lifelong passion for striping. This defining moment was accompanied by a well-deserved raise to $10 a week, underlining Tom’s growing prominence.
The narrative took an intriguing twist as Tom and the Baron ventured to explore a newly opened shop in Southgate. This establishment belonged to none other than Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, a legendary name in the custom car universe. Instant chemistry between the trio paved the way for the formation of the “Crazy Painters.” This collaboration, driven by shared artistic fervor, flourished until 1959 when Ed embarked on his independent studio venture in Maywood.
Today, Tom Kelly stands as a remarkable link to the past, the last of the iconic trio, and a testament to the enduring legacy of pinstriping artistry. His journey from the streets of LA to the forefront of Kustom Kulture history embodies the indomitable spirit of an era that forever changed the landscape of automotive decoration.
