Skateboarding has truly become a cultural phenomenon. It has transcended the world of sports and reached new heights as a form of art. One of the things that make skateboarding unique is the way it integrates design and art into the sport. Skateboard decks have become a canvas for artists and designers to showcase their work. Today, we will explore the rise of skateboard art and how it has become an important element in the skateboarding community.
The skateboard art movement started in the 1970s in California when skaters began to add their own graphics and designs to their boards. It was a time when skateboarding had no rules, no governing bodies, and no restrictions. The skateboarding lifestyle celebrated creativity, individuality, and rebellion. This is why many young artists started to express themselves through the decks they were riding.
In time, skateboard art evolved into a legitimate art form. Many famous artists like Shepard Fairey, Jim Phillips, and Ed Templeton have created some of the most iconic skateboard designs in history. With the rise of social media, skateboarding art has become more accessible, and many up-and-coming artists have emerged on the scene. Instagram has become a platform for skateboard artists to showcase their work, connect with fans, and promote their brands.
Skateboard art is not just limited to graphic designs. Many artists also customize decks by painting them, drawing on them, or using other forms of media like stickers or stencils. These custom decks are often unique pieces of art that showcase the artist's personality and style.
photo credit: Quack Skateboards
Skateboard art has also become an important part of skateboarding culture as a whole. The sport has evolved from a counterculture movement to a mainstream industry. Skateboarding brands like Baker, Girl, and Element have become household names and are synonymous with skateboard art. Skateboard art has also influenced fashion, music, and even other sports like snowboarding.
In conclusion, skateboard art has gone from being an underground movement to a mainstream art form. It has influenced generations of skateboarders, artists, and designers and has become a vital part of the skateboarding community. Skateboard art has opened doors for new creatives to express themselves, and it has given skateboarding a unique identity that sets it apart from other sports. With the continuous growth of skateboarding, it's safe to say that skateboard art is not going anywhere and will continue to evolve for generations to come.