HOW IT ALL STARTED
Tristan had always be drawn to the artistic side of things in life. At the age of 8 years old he began illustrating with a purpose and expressing himself through multi media’s such as charcoals, water colors and acrylics as well as the traditional pencil and pen drawings he fell in love with. It was around the age of 14 that he aspired to be a tattoo artist. Given his age, it had only been a dream as he would have to wait another 4 years to even have an artist consider him for an apprentice.
Shortly after turning 14, Tristan and his father, Craig, went to a used car lot in Vancouver to purchase a “first ride”. Sitting there was what Tristan didn’t realize would be the beginnings to a whole new world. A 1993 s10, last year of the squarebody, that made his mind start to spiral with the possibilities of this project. Tristan started a Facebook page called “Custom Minitrucks” and started to connect with other mini truckers all over the world. The ideas, creativity and genuine interactions had him feeling welcomed into the community and truly inspired to build.
PC: @PRETTYLOWAPPAREL
It didn’t take long for Tristan to meet local mini truckin friends, which led to him to receiving a rendering from Preston Johnson (Lakeview Rod & Custom). After learning the renderings were even a thing, Tristan was hooked, a perfect blend of his automotive love and artistic passion. Preston guided Pengelly through the photoshop program that he had graciously gifted him and his world expanded drastically.
It was February of 2011 that Tristan had decided to start RBT (Renderings By Tristan) and begin taking commission’s for renderings. Throughout the following years, Tristan had created his own style and technique to create more detailed and perspective-correct illustrations. This allowed opportunities to work with some of the most talented builders in the automotive industry and create a name for himself within it as well. Since beginning RBT, Tristan has been featured throughout many magazine publications, social media contents and industry showcases.
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None of this would have been possible without the clients over the years and the great ideas that allow Tristan to create their vision. A huge thank you goes to each and every supporter that has been apart of his journey and to all the new clientele down the road.
C10 BUILDERS GUIDE - FALL 2025
