Rail Yard Studios announces the launch of “Project Boxcar” – modern graffiti designs applied to authentic railcar sections. It’s a new addition to their high-end custom furniture from reclaimed railroad materials.

Robert Hendrick, Founder of Rail Yard Studios and owner of a railroad construction firm, explains that Project Boxcar comes with some conflict, “Graffiti equates to vandalism on the railroad. As a railroader myself that’s a problem, but as an artist, I have a vision for changing that.”

Project Boxcar is outdoor art on the move that’s come indoors to settle down, but it doesn’t have to be under roof. Weatherproof industrial-quality paint is applied to railcar panels made to endure the harshest elements. If there’s any doubt, simply look at a passing train and notice how well those works have stood the test of time.

For inspiration in changing the railroad industry view of these “vandals,” Hendrick looks to one of the best-known railroad tycoons in U.S. history. “Andrew Carnegie made his fortune in the railroad business. He also stands as one of the greatest supporters in the history of the modern arts.”

Hendrick chose to collaborate with urban artist Troy Duff who brings an insane depth of talent to the mix. “Each piece is its own creation. They speak for themselves.” Duff says with a smile and a matter of fact tone. The color pallets range from an explosion of fluorescents to metallic or even monochromatic. In some instances, designs completely obscure the railcar panel, while others take advantage of the texture of the railcar in the design.

Hendrick enjoys working with the confessed vandal, “Troy is amazing. He starts something, and I wonder how in the world it will ever work out. Then halfway through, it starts to emerge, and then I’m begging him to stop. But he keeps at it, and the results are simply stunning. You have to appreciate the talent.”

Still, Hendrick recognizes that he has a challenge ahead with the railroad industry, but he’s taking the long view. “Trains start off slow, and it takes a lot of effort to get one in motion. But once it starts rolling, it’s just as hard to stop a train.”

Hendrick started the train moving with two recent public art projects – one for the Metro Arts Commission in Nashville, Tennessee and more notably for one of the largest railroads in the USA.

Sounds like he’s making some progress already!

Go to www.facebook.com/projectboxcar to see some samples from the collection. The official unveiling will be May 20th, 2016 from 5-8pm at Rail Yard Studios at 57 Willow Street in Nashville, Tennessee.

About Rail Yard Studios

Founded by Robert Hendrick in 2011, Rail Yard Studios crafts high-end tables, desks, seating and accessories from reclaimed railroad steel dating back to 1896. Dedicated to environmental responsibility as well as historic preservation, the company combines the steel with untreated creosote-free hardwood timbers sourced from cross tie manufacturers. See their work at www.railyardstudios.com.

Troy Duff honed his street art skills in Los Angeles before returning to his roots in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee. An admitted vandal in his younger years, his reputation and outstanding talent allow him to pursue his art with both private commissions and public property owners seeking out his talents.