Housed in the Garage special event space, visitors will experience a celebration of the artistry, influence and impact of a man whose designs have defined American motorcycles for generations. Key elements include previously unseen historical artifacts and items from Willie’s personal collection that provide insight into his unique perspective, personal style, creative process, inspiration and influences. In addition, one-of-a-kind vehicles, original designs, art, rare artifacts and media paint an engaging portrait of this iconic figure, his influential career, legacy, and current work.
Willie G. Davidson currently serves as chief styling officer emeritus and brand ambassador at Harley-Davidson, Inc. He is affectionately known by millions of motorcycle enthusiasts as “Willie G.,” and he is the grandson of one of the original founders, William A. Davidson. Willie’s immersion in motorcycle culture and passion for art and design led him first to the University of Wisconsin and then to Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. After spending five years at Brooks Stevens Inc., Willie joined Harley-Davidson as design director, where he established the company’s first formal styling department. For 49 years, Davidson helped shape the look, sound and feel that define Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Beginning with the FX Super Glide® in 1971, he was responsible for a string of iconic designs that established the company’s “factory custom” dominance. In 1981, he was one of 13 executives who raised more than $75 million to purchase Harley-Davidson from AMF Incorporated.
