Reinaldo Fuentes aka Solo Element, founder of Solo Element Concepts LLC, is an award-winning custom airbrush artist and automotive designer who has redefined vehicle customization with soul, story, and style.
Born and raised in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Reinaldo’s creative journey began early as a graffiti artist, fueled by a passion for bold color and self-expression. At just 10 years old, his mother recognized his talent and gifted him his first airbrush, setting him on a path that would soon become his life’s work. By 15, he was already painting cars at a local autobody shop, developing his skills entirely self-taught.
As a young entrepreneur, Reinaldo also built a thriving business customizing t-shirts, sneakers, and accessories, sometimes earning up to $200 a day through his custom airbrush work.
A pivotal moment came while living in Louisiana, when Reinaldo read an article titled “West Coast Beats East Coast” written by Joe Greeves, a living Legend’s Journey in Automotive Photojournalism. Inspired by the skill and creativity of the West Coast custom scene, he confidently told himself:
“I can beat them — I have the skills to compete at that level.”
Motivated by that drive, he relocated to Florida, where his business continued to grow, refining his signature airbrush techniques and expanding his reputation as one of the top custom artists in the field.
By chance, Reinaldo later crossed paths with Joe Greeves himself. Once Joe saw Reinaldo’s work in person, he immediately recognized his rare talent. Impressed, Joe asked Reinaldo to customize his personal car. That project led to a strong mutual respect, and the two built a friendship that remains to this day.
With that recognition, momentum, and growing confidence, Reinaldo made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, where he officially founded Solo Element Concepts LLC, expanding his creative vision to serve clients from around the world.
Eventually, Reinaldo moved to Los Angeles, the global hub of custom car culture, and officially launched Solo Element Concepts LLC — blending East Coast hustle with West Coast opportunity.
Today, Solo Element Concepts offers fully customized work across multiple canvases:
- Custom Cars
- Trucks
- Motorcycles
- Surfboards
- Musical Instruments (bass & electric guitars)
- Murals and Fine Art
Each project is approached like a personal commission. Every client shares their story, and Reinaldo brings it to life — crafting art that reflects pride, identity, and passion.
“At the end of the day, it’s still a canvas — whether it’s metal, fiberglass, or anything you ride. I want people to feel proud and seen in everything they ride — on the road or on the water.”
His award-winning work has been featured in Lowrider Magazine, Baggers Magazine, Mustang Magazine, Aussie Magazine,
and numerous music videos, films, blogs, and car shows around the world. His outstanding craftsmanship has earned multiple top honors, including:
- Best of Show at Slamfest 2012
- Best of Show at the Classic Orlando FL 2012
- Best Paint & Best Interior at Dub Show Miami 2013
- Multiple SEMA Show appearances
One of his most historic achievements came at SEMA 2013, when he became the first artist to introduce an air suppression system on a Ferrari Modena 360, further proving his ability to innovate in both technical engineering and creative design.
Reinaldo’s work also honors the Lowrider culture, blending timeless candy coats, old-school flake finishes, detailed murals, and powerful personal stories — always respecting the deep cultural roots behind every build.
Today, clients from around the world seek Solo Element Concepts for work that’s more than just paint — it’s timeless art, infused with meaning,
built to turn heads and tell a story.
📍 Contact Solo Element Concepts:
Website:
www.soloelementconceptsllc.com
Phone: 818-303-3568
Instagram: @SoloElement
Location: Los Angeles, CA
