Bristol cyclist creates award-winning Strava art

A Bristol cyclist has won a prize for his Strava-based artwork, created by riding the city’s streets.

Taking first place in the Bristol Cycle Festival competition was Anthony Hoyte,for his work 'Fowl Play' (51miles, 7hours 40mins 3955 feet elevation).

All entrants had to log their artwork using the Strava app, which maps rides.

Organiser Paula Bowles told the Bristol Post: “I’m an illustrator and also enjoy cycling, so after discussing inspirational Strava art from around the world with friends, I was excited to combine my two interests. I decided to organise Bristol’s very own Strava Art exhibition and competition as part of the Bristol Cycle Festival.

“For the week of the cycle festival, the roads became a canvas and bicycles became brushes.

“It became a real talking point, encouraging a sense of humour, creativity and inspiring people to get out and cycle with an alternative goal in mind.”
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The judges looked at the complexity and planning of the images.

Jon Usher of transport charity Sustrans said: “It was an honour to be asked to judge the first ever Strava art competition in Bristol. The standard of entry was exceptional – so much effort had gone into planning and then riding the routes to create the images.

“We hope the event can grow to become an annual feature of the Bristol Cycle Festival, celebrating all things bike in our city.”

Andrew Price took second place with his work 'Southern Ride Chicken' (7.7miles, 1hour1min, 771 feet elevation).

Andrew said: "This work depicts a roast chicken located in the heart of Bristol. One drumstick protrudes out towards the Bearpit roundabout, and the other towards Kingsdown. The chicken wing encompasses Hotwells and Clifton Wood, whilst the breast extends over Clifton. It's possible that the chicken is overdone as it proved to be quite tough: with the route incorporating the climbs of Jacob’s Wells Rd, Granby Hill, the steep Portway footpath, and St. Michael's Hill."

His prize was a Strava helmet which he hopes to auction for a Parkinsons charity. Anthony won vouchers from Sustrans and to have his print made into a canvas.

To see some more amazing Strava art we've featured over the years, click here.