About Dave "Letterfly" Knoderer
“The smartest thing I ever did was run away and join the circus.”
Dave "Letterfly" Knoderer is an acclaimed artist, author, and inspirational speaker whose extraordinary life story has inspired audiences across the country. Known as the guru of living an interesting life, Dave brings decades of creative experience, personal transformation, and artistic mastery to every canvas and stage he touches...
…Raised under the weight of a perfectionist father, Dave faced deep frustration as a boy. Fueled by a desire for freedom and creative expression, he made the bold decision to run away and join the circus as a teenager—starting his career as a drummer and eventually becoming a liberty horse trainer and Haute École horseman in a traditional three-ring circus.
Dave’s artistry began to shine as he painted massive signs, animal murals, and decorative artwork on circus fleets. His journey evolved into a thriving career in the Sign and Design trade, where he tackled sensational challenges, from:
- Themed murals for amusement parks and restaurants
- Gold leaf and pinstriping on antique fire trucks
- Theater set design and interior graphics
- Airbrushed art and custom lettering on motorcycles, hot rods, guitars—even cake mixers
But his path wasn’t always smooth. A battle with alcoholism brought his life to a halt. In that quiet space, Dave found a practical relationship with God, a renewed connection with his father, and a powerful sense of purpose.
Now sober and spiritually grounded, Dave channels his energy into writing and traveling artistry. His memoirs, born from decades of newsletter stories and road reflections, capture the chaos, humor, and revelations of a life fully lived.
Today, Letterfly is one of the top producers of:
- Old-school pinstriping
- Hand-painted lettering
- Gold leaf inscriptions
- Custom airbrushed imagery on high-end motorhomes and vintage vehicles
When he’s not painting, he’s writing—chronicling life’s unexpected turns and helping others see their own challenges as divine gifts leading to transformation.
Whether through a brushstroke or a spoken word, Dave inspires people to embrace their journey, discover their true purpose, and live a more colorful, creative life.