Brendan Vail Interview | Respect the Dreamer
Brendan Vail is an artist, educator, and advocate who moves fluidly between graphic design, screen printing, and photography. His studio is based out of Foster Bikepark in the Bronx, where he’s also spent years helping grow one of NYC’s most important spaces for BMX and skate culture. Brendan shares his love of art and DIY culture with young people across the city through programs with NYC Parks, the New York Public Library, and WOZU. His work is all about creativity, community, and making space for the next generation to express themselves.
What inspired you to pursue your dream, and how did it all begin?
I’ve always been inspired by the overlap of art, music, and BMX culture.
Growing up, people like Vinny Raffa of Nice Skate Shoes and Dead Endustries Skateboards had a huge influence on me — showing me what was possible when you combined creativity with community. Spaces like ABC No Rio also left a big mark, introducing me to DIY culture and the idea that you can build your own scene from the ground up.
Screen printing and design gave me a way to put ideas into the world, while photography let me document the people and places I care about.
My work at Mullaly Bikepark really brought it all together — it became both my studio and a space where I could give back. Teaching with organizations like NYC Parks, the New York Public Library, and WOZU has been a natural extension of that, helping the next generation find their own voice through art.
The accessibility of programs at places like ABC No Rio left a lasting impression on me, and it’s a big reason why I’m committed to creating spaces and opportunities where others can discover their own creativity the same way I did.
Can you share a defining moment in your journey that shaped your perspective and fueled your passion?
One of the most defining moments for me was realizing early on that if we wanted a place to ride, we had to build it ourselves. As kids, BMX and skateboarding were looked down upon, and there weren’t really any spots available for us, so we just started making our own spaces, that were on abandoned buildings and vacant lots. That experience taught me the power of creating something out of nothing, and it shaped how I’ve approached art, design, and community ever since.
Later on, getting the first grant approval for a bikepark project really reinforced that lesson. It showed me that the same DIY spirit we had as kids could grow into something bigger. Getting funding and real support behind it to help create opportunities for others. Both experiences fueled my passion for building spaces where creativity and community can thrive.
How do you handle setbacks and keep pushing forward in the pursuit of your dreams?
Setbacks are just learning experiences, you can't let yourself lose it over lessons you needed to learn to move forward. This goes for trying a new trick, art technique, or anything else. Nobody is perfect and falling down is a big part of learning and being the best version of yourself.
Are there specific individuals who have inspired you along the journey?
I am lucky to have had a ton of influential people in my life. Vinny Raffa first putting me on to all of the cool brands as a kid. Ed Pollio was a huge help in getting the bikepark project up and running along with my coworker at the park Rob Ramos and Louie Perez.
How do you maintain a balance between pursuing your dreams and handling everyday responsibilities?
I try to wake up early every day, eat healthy, and stay around positive people who want to succeed. What you intake is what you output, so don't listen to and eat shit unless that’s all you want to produce haha.
How do you overcome self-doubt and stay confident in your abilities?
Self-doubt is a hard one and never really goes away, especially when trying to launch a new project or get something off the ground. It is kinda like you just have to take the Evel Knievel outlook sometimes and say F IT, pull the throttle and see if you ride away.
Can you share a memorable success story or achievement that resulted from your determination?
After about 15 years of working with the Parks Department, we secured $10 million dollars in funding from Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Athena Stevens, NYC Parks Department, and the State of New York. In 2026 the park will shut down for a few months and then reopen in 2027 as a top-of-the-line concrete park that was designed by us, the riders.
In what ways do you stay motivated during challenging times?
Put some tunes on and get to work! Putting things off only makes tasks pile up and get more difficult.
What dream are you living right now?
I just returned from a life-changing experience going out and working with the amazing WOZU organization on Standing Rock land in Cannonball, North Dakota. They are working to regenerate the land, while educating and feeding the community. I am going to be rolling out a bunch of images and video I captured on Instagram at @brendanvail and @wozuinc.
What advice would you give to someone with a dream?
Do like the Gorilla Biscuits said and START TODAY! haha
Photography credit:
murphy lee moschetta took the good pics, I shot the rest haha
Website
brendan-vail.com
Instagram
@brendanvail
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