Justin

Justin Burns grew up in Prescott, Arizona. Growing up in the Burns family was great for a boy who was interested in cars and mechanics. Justin's stepfather, Bob Burns, was Prescott's "Sign Painter" and pin striper. Bob was also Kenneth Howard's (aka Von Dutch) best friend. Dutch used to visit Bob and the Burns household on many occasions. As Justin grew, he became more and more interested in the mechanics of things, spending a lot of time with his grandfather, Bob Mezeske, an amazing mechanic and owner of Car Care by Bob.

After graduating high school, Justin began to delve into his other passion, locomotives. He moved to Silver Plume Colorado where he worked for Georgetown Loop Railroad as a fireman. Deciding to move a little closer to home, Justin packed up and went to Williams, Arizona where he worked with the Grand Canyon Railroad as a fireman. Although Justin loved working on locomotives, certain circumstances brought him back to Prescott, where he went to work for his grandfather. He spent a lot of his free time working on his vehicles with the ultimate dream of building his very own custom.

In 2002, Justin started working with life long friend, Charles Armstrong, and new friend Brad Houk, on various projects. They took advantage of an amazing opportunity to open a full blown shop, and Auto Art Studio was born. In 2005, Justin bought a 55 Chrysler from a Prescott local who had owned the car for many years. The local had no previous wishes of selling the car, but Justin just happened to be in the right place at the right time. This Chrysler would end up being Justin's first finished custom. He, along with the help of Auto Art Studio, stripped the car, replaced the floor, did all the body work, flamed, added air ride suspension, got the original 301 running like never before and created Miss Lead a(non-lead) sled.

Justin has over 16 years of mechanical experience, from steam locomotive heavy maintenance and repair to modern computer controlled engine management systems. He is also experienced in suspension, brakes and electrical systems. Justin specializes in automotive performance engine modifications. He also enjoys working with older cars and engines, Nostalgia Lives! He is still involved with steam locomotives, in large scale and small scale model railroading. Between his first priority, his son, and vehicles, Justin's time is limited. As he says, "It's a good thing I love what I do!"