Photography Mon Oct 26 2009

Sexy People on Sexy Bikes

Looking forward to January? No? Maybe this will help-- the new year means new calendars. New calendars means a new Thought You Knew (TyK) calendar. What? You don't know about TyK calendars? Let me tell you.

The TyK calendar project was born last year, as a result of frustrated female cyclists in Chicago. Sick of being pegged as either mechanically savvy but asexual, or cute but inept with their bikes, they sought out a new way to represent themselves.

Over a series of brunches, TyK founder Alexis Finch and her sexy pedal-pushing buddies came up with the idea to make a calendar, showcasing the dual nature that women cyclists embody. Twelve women were selected to choose a fantasy, ranging from a Russian spy to a jungle woman, and they were dressed up by a team of stylists and photographed (by local photographer Michelle Nolan) with their bikes.

The results look very much like pinup girls, but these women are not models, they are everyday cyclists. They ride the streets of Chicago for a living, for transportation, or just for fun. But once in the photo studio, they're given a chance to show off their femininity and embrace their sexy side- something many female cyclists are disinclined to do for fear of losing street cred.

This year, due to popular demand, a men's calendar has been shot by Christopher Dilts. The theme this year is "superheroes." There is a Mr. Smashit (who smashes stuff,) a Jekyll and Hyde, an Aquaman, (who was painted blue and given fins), and an old-timey Chicago-style gangster.
On Friday, November 20th, Mars Gallery (1139 W. Fulton Market) will host TyK's Gala-Gallery Release Party. Michelle Nolan will show art prints of all twelve of the 2010 ladie's pinups, each paired with one candid portrait. Christopher Dilts will be displaying prints of the men's superheroes, again each paired with a candid shot. Calendars, as well as prints, will be available for sale. Cocktails will be provided, 5-11pm.

Check out the teasers for the 2010 women's calendar here.

The calendars will be for sale at various locations around the city, as well as through the TyK website. The proceeds from the TyK project go directly to the Chicago Women's Health Center.

— Kelly Reaves / Comments (0)