146 | Brandon McCoy: Turning Passion for Custom Paint into a Thriving Career

About the Guest

Brandon McCoy is a distinguished custom paint artist and graphic designer based out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Known professionally as Gooch Customs, Brandon has garnered a nationwide reputation for his unique approach to car graphics, pinstriping, and mixed media art. His journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a respected name in the automotive art scene highlights his dedication and passion. With a style deeply rooted in 90s mini-truck culture, his work spans from custom vehicles to viral objects like intricately designed toilets that capture a nostalgic yet contemporary aesthetic. Brandon’s expertise extends to teaching custom paint classes and his work is highly sought after by clients and advertisers alike who value his bold and authentic designs.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks invites Brandon McCoy, the mind behind Gooch Customs, to share his enthralling journey from a small-town Kansas upbringing to an eminent name in custom automotive artistry. The episode delves into how Brandon navigated his early life challenges, transitioning from restoring cars to embracing art as a full-time career, driven by social media’s transformative power. With over two decades of honing his craft, Brandon infuses an unapologetic boldness into everything he creates—from mini-trucks and bike tanks to unusual objects, like the famous painted toilets, that have made waves at renowned events such as SEMA.

Brandon offers insights into his creative process, emphasizing the significance of trusting one’s style and the pursuit of authenticity over perfection. Social media’s role in Brandon’s rise is discussed, showcasing how it allowed him to reach a global audience and exploit unconventional ideas that captivate the masses. Highlighting themes of resilience, passion, and innovation, this episode is a testament to the power of a determined, creative spirit and the adventures of establishing oneself as a noteworthy artisan in a competitive field. Listeners will find inspiration in Brandon’s story of forging a distinctive path and embracing every artistic challenge with courage and commitment.

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity Over Perfection: Brandon underscores the value of authenticity in art, asserting that “it’s impossible for art to be perfect, if it’s perfect, it’s not art.”
• Social Media Influence: The pivotal role of social media in expanding Brandon’s reach and client base, exemplified by his viral paint jobs on unconventional canvases like toilets.
• Challenges as Catalysts: Brandon’s journey emphasizes embracing obstacles, with experiences like being fired and working from a small garage fueling his drive.
• Community and Relationships: The importance of community is highlighted through Brandon’s connections within the mini-truck scene and his commitment to teaching upcoming artists.
• Passion and Persistence: The enduring theme throughout is the relentless pursuit of passion, where art serves as both livelihood and sanctuary.

Notable Quotes

• “If it’s perfect, it’s not art. It’s as simple as that.”
• “As long as I can wake up and do whatever I want to do and not have to answer to anybody and not have a Monday, I’m doing something right.”
• “It’s impossible for art to be perfect. Perfection is in the eye of the beholder.”
• “I consider myself absolutely obsessed with custom paint. So there’s nothing out there that, if you thought of it, I’ve probably thought of it.”
• “Nothing leaves my shop unless I’m proud of it.”

Resources

• Gooch Customs on Instagram: Gooch Customs Instagram
• Gooch Customs on TikTok: Gooch Customs TikTok
• Becoming Undone Podcast Website: undonepodcast.com
• Science of the Comeback Mobile App: scienceofthecomeback.com

Tune into this vibrant episode to discover how Brandon McCoy harnesses his artistic talents to create unforgettable designs and how he rose to prominence in the custom paint scene. For those inspired by artistic authenticity and relentless creativity, this conversation is not to be missed. Stay connected for more transformative stories and interviews on “Becoming Undone.”