Skate Scene: Art Inspired By Skate Culture

Opening reception is a free event with light refreshments served

Learn more about the exhibit here

This vibrant exhibit explores the intersection of skateboarding and the arts, showcasing the profound influence of skate culture on various artistic mediums.

Skate culture has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted movement that extends beyond the sport itself. “The Skate Scene” seeks to capture the creativity and ingenuity inherent in skate culture through visual arts, video, photography, zines, and more. The goal is to spotlight the artistic license and freedom that skateboarding fosters.

The exhibition features works from a diverse group of over 40 artists, working in mediums such as oil, charcoal, photography, and sculpture. Among the exhibiting artists are well-known figures in the skate scene, including Steve Caballero and Steve Alba, local Philadelphia artists, and young emerging artists.

“The Skate Scene” is curated by the Delco Skatepark Coalition, an organization dedicated to advocating for and fundraising to build adaptive, inclusive, and ADA-accessible skateparks in Delaware County. A portion of the sales from the art show will contribute to the Coalition’s ongoing efforts. As a registered 501(c)(3) charity, the Delco Skatepark Coalition is committed to creating positive change through skateboarding.

“Skaters are some of the most dedicated creatives out there. It’s an inherent part of skating itself: a level of fearlessness, willingness to try new things and a community that supports all forms of that outward expression,” said Stacy Olkowski, one of the curators of the exhibit. “We are excited to bring together art and skate culture in a way that highlights creativity and community spirit of both.”

“Skateboarding itself is a creative activity,” as Joseph Peleckis, another curator, puts it. “The way a skater looks while skating, the terrain, the tricks, are akin to a dance or a show, albeit a gnarly one. The board itself is a double sided space for collage and graphics. Naturally, skateboarding attracts people who draw, paint, make art, of one form or another, and the act of skateboarding brings these people together that push on each other, to try this, land that, start a band, make a zine. This show will provide a taste of this.”

“The Skate Scene: Art Inspired by Skaters and Skate Culture” promises to be a one-of-a-kind event that unites the local community, art enthusiasts, and skate culture aficionados. The Media Arts Council invites everyone to join in this celebration of creativity, freedom, and the unique connection between skateboarding and the arts.