The Foundation's Flagship Build
The Bare Metal Bel Air
One build. Built from everything that came before it. Built to carry opportunity forward.
Rescue to Rebirth
The Bel Air That Builds Futures
This 1964 Chevrolet Bel Air began as a forgotten car waiting to be seen again. Derek Bieri of Vice Grip Garage rescued it, brought it back to life on MotorTrend's Roadworthy Rescues, and gifted it to Rae Ripple for the Foundation's first flagship build.
What followed was more than a restoration. Rae transformed the Bel Air into a one of one rolling sculpture built from steel, stained glass, hard work, and the belief that where someone starts does not decide where they finish.
This car carries the same promise as the Foundation itself: broken does not mean finished, and a second chance can become something extraordinary.
This is more than a build. It is the cornerstone of a mission to help others rebuild their lives.
From Rust to Revelation
A Car Turned Into a Canvas
Inspired by the early work of Louis Comfort Tiffany, the finished Bel Air brings together positive and negative space, Sacred Gothic influence, skilled trades, and fine art. Every detail tells the story of transformation.
Freehand Plasma
Roses, hidden hearts, and organic forms were drawn directly into the steel and cut without templates.
Stained Glass
Custom glass fills the wing windows and trunk lid, turning early stained glass work into part of the car's permanent story.
Built by Hand
New floor pans, a sealed underside, hand painted hardtop, custom door panels, and restored details carry the build from the ground up.
Purpose in Every Detail
Thorogood work boot leather, GCD craftsmanship, Holley lighting, and the work of dedicated partners bring the vision together.
The Consignment Is Live
The Road Leads to Mecum Kissimmee
The Bare Metal Bel Air will cross the auction block at Mecum Kissimmee 2027. It is being offered with no reserve, and proceeds will benefit The Rae Ripple Foundation and the work of creating access to skilled trades for families facing limited opportunities.
Every Cut. Every Weld. Every Setback.
Watch the Entire Build
The separate Build page now lives here. Follow the Bel Air from the first chapter through its biggest transformations, then continue to the full YouTube playlist for every new video and update.
It All Begins Here
Watch on YouTubeBare Metal Bel Air Part 2
Watch on YouTubeGenesis
Watch on YouTubeI Cut It!
Watch on YouTubeFloor Is Out
Watch on YouTubeNo More Floor Pans!
Open the YouTube PlaylistWe Broke Down
Watch on YouTubeThe Beginning of Something Bigger
Watch on YouTubeWant the full journey in one place? Open the official Bare Metal Bel Air playlist and keep watching from chapter to chapter.
Watch the Full PlaylistOne car. One mission. A future built forward.
Why This Build Matters
The Finish Line Opens New Doors
The Bare Metal Bel Air was created to do more than turn heads. Its auction proceeds will help The Rae Ripple Foundation bring welding, plasma cutting, art, education, mentorship, and career pathways to people and families who deserve the chance to discover what they can build.
The car began as something overlooked. It became proof that time, skill, support, and follow through can change the ending.
With support throughout the journey from
Follow the Build. Carry the Mission Forward.
See the finished car, revisit every chapter, and follow it all the way to the auction block at Mecum Kissimmee 2027.