Pinstriping Artist Finds Adventure In Her 1966 Jeepster Commando

Kate Cook with 1966 Jeepster
Photo: Kate Cook

Kate Cook’s father had only one requirement for her first car: it had to be four-wheel drive. Even before her dad set his conditions, Kate knew what she wanted: a Jeepster Commando. She of course wanted to find one that wasn’t completely disfigured with the aftermarket modifications that so often befall old Jeeps.

Originally from California, Kate successfully began selling multiple works of her art at a young age through joining a community of artists called the Mountain Arts Network. Using the money she earned through selling her art, Kate purchased her first car, a 1966 Jeepster Commando.

Kate Cook and Dad with 1966 Jeepster
Photo: Kate Cook

The Commando they ended up purchasing those years ago was not in the best shape, and thus began Kate’s education in keeping a classic running which she learned with her dad and brother.

Kate Cook works on 1966 Jeepster Commando
Photo: Kate Cook

This Jeep later became the inspiration for her art studio name — Asphalt Canvas Custom Art — and gave her the opportunity to start selling her artwork at car shows while showing her restored Jeep.

Finding Adventure in a 1966 Jeepster Commando 

Video: Hagerty

About Asphalt Canvas Custom Art

Photo: Kate Cook

The owner and artist of Asphalt Canvas Custom Art LLC, Kate Cook, spends her days turning client’s ideas into one-of-a-kind works of fine art in graphite, ink and watercolor, and automotive enamel.

At the age of 16, Kate was hired by a local author to illustrate her first published children’s book, “The Legend of Douglas Fir”, which solidified her ambitions to go to college to become a professional artist. After graduating high school, Kate accepted an artistic and scholastic scholarship through The University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Texas, where she studied abroad for a short time in Italy and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree in Studio Art.

Today, Kate calls Texas her home, with her husband and pup, Milner. She has obtained additional certifications from specialized workshops for painting and design. She is a member of the Georgetown Art Center in Georgetown, Texas.

Photo: Kate Cook

Kate is also a licensed Ed Roth/Rat Fink trademark artist! You may view her most recent artistic publications and accolades here. Kate and her artwork have been featured at shows such as SEMA, Chopper Fest, Luckenrod, and The Ventura Nationals. She has had the privilege of working with clients from Scotland, Sweden, and all over the United States, creating custom art for them, inspired by their ideas.

So if you see Kate’s Jeepster parked at an art festival or car show, come say, “Hi”, and inquire about your own custom piece of art, hand crafted by Asphalt Canvas Custom Art LLC.