The gifted Artist Jedrek Speer is a renowned artist. A graduate of Pleasant Valley High School in 1995, Jed is quick to point out the inspiration from beloved art teacher Ed Logan, in both print design and murals. Like many local grads, Jed yearned to move out of Chico and did so successfully. First stop, a stint in Tahoe before moving to Santa Cruz in 2000. After three years gathering experience and knowledge in film and digital media, he set his sights on L.A. There, he went to work, putting his skills in media on display, including a gig with E! Entertainment. Jed simply was not fulfilled or happy and, after meeting a gal, found himself in the apparel industry drawing for her. He was hired away and, not surprisingly, moved back to Chico to work for 5th Sun. Jed realized the move made sense, especially considering his family. Once again breaking away, he and a friend ventured into the apparel world through their company, Seizer One Designs. 38
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With all this both in front and behind him, Jed felt strongly about bringing a Southern California vibe to his hometown. Jed revived his early inspiration in the world of murals by bringing vibrantly colored walls to Chico, at a time they were sorely lacking. His “LOVE” murals on the west end of Lulu’s building burst onto the scene as an instantaneous selfie and insta-place to be featured on demand. The art world is known for collaborations, and Jed joined Christian Garcia to bring to life the healing “Here We Grow” mural in Paradise. Jed noted, “It was meant to be considered empowering.” So then, what happens when a lifelong friend, mentor, and early source of inspiration asks you to install a mural in the front window of his bike shop? Beyond merely answering the call, you reminisce, seek perfection, and discover the unwavering truth behind this remarkable childhood hero, Dax Downey.
Dax has been owner and operator of Greenline Cycles, a unique local bike shop located in Downtown Chico. Interesting that the first shop he worked at was known as Family Cyclery. Dax treated the young people around like his family. Jed mused, “I met Dax when I was around 11 or 12 years old. My friend and I would ride the bus down from Paradise to ride in the parks in Chico. Dax was the same warm and kind person he is today, but I felt he made an extra effort to make sure we were taken care of.” He also shared the fact Dax always allowed them to take his bikes out, which were always the newest and the best. Jed also recalls Dax took him snowboarding for the very first time. He smiles at the fact that, at age 15, Dax hired him to be his first employee. Jed laughs, “I’m sure I was an awful employee!” As a son of a single mom and not having a lot of stuff, he holds Dax close to his heart as “a gem, a shining light in all the dark.” Then as Jed got deeper and deeper into the project for Dax’s storefront, a tide turned revealing an awesome reality.
