Unique Skateboard Art: Artist Decks for Your Wall
Skateboard art is a vibrant and dynamic form of artistic expression, transforming the humble skateboard deck into a canvas for creativity. More than just a means of transportation, skateboards have become a medium for artists to showcase their talent, offering a unique blend of skate culture and visual art. Whether you're a seasoned skater or an art enthusiast, skateboard wall art provides an opportunity to bring a piece of this exciting world into your home.
Understanding Skateboard Art
What is Skateboard Art?
Skateboard art encompasses artwork designed and applied to a skateboard deck. This can range from simple graphic prints to elaborate hand-painted designs. The skateboard deck itself becomes the canvas, with the artist using paint, acrylic, or other mediums to create unique designs. Skateboard art transcends mere decoration; it's a reflection of skateboarding culture, a canvas for social commentary, and a medium for artistic exploration.
The Evolution of Skateboard Art
The evolution of skateboard art mirrors the evolution of skateboarding itself. Early skateboards often featured simple, basic graphic prints. As skateboarding gained popularity, so did the demand for more creative and individualized skate deck designs. Artists began to experiment with different styles, from bold, graphic designs to intricate, hand-painted artwork. This shift transformed the skateboard deck from a functional component to a collectible piece of art, reflecting the skater's individual style and personality.
Types of Skateboard Deck Art
Skateboard deck art comes in a wide array of styles and techniques. Some decks feature screen-printed graphics, offering vibrant colors and precise details. Others showcase hand-painted artwork, where artists directly apply paint to the deck, creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. You can buy skateboard decks with everything from iconic cartoon characters to modern abstract art. The best decks are premium skateboard pieces, sometimes even certified as collectible art.
Choosing the Best Skateboard Deck for Wall Art
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Deck
When selecting a skateboard deck for skateboard wall art, consider size, design, and material. A premium skateboard deck will likely feature higher-quality materials and construction, affecting its longevity as a wall art piece. Ultimately, selecting the skateboard deck is about matching your personal aesthetic.
Size and Design: Finding the Right Fit
The size of the skateboard deck should complement the wall space. The artwork should resonate with your personal style and complement your existing decor. Consider how the colors and graphics of the design will interact with the surrounding colors on the wall.
Material Choices: Maple vs. Alternative Woods
Most skateboard decks are crafted from maple wood, known for its durability. However, you may encounter alternative woods like birch or bamboo, each offering a different aesthetic and feel. Consider how the wood grain and texture will interact with the skateboard art on the deck. Selecting the right wood will ensure that your skateboard wall art looks great.
Unique Features of Artist Decks
Custom vs. Pre-Designed Artwork
Artist decks range from custom artwork to pre-designed prints. Custom skateboard decks allow for collaboration with an artist. Alternatively, you can choose pre-designed options, summarized in the table below:
| Deck Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Custom | Collaboration with an artist. |
| Pre-designed | Artwork from established artists. |
Contemporary Trends in Skateboard Art
Modern skateboard art often incorporates bold graphics, neon colors, and abstract designs. Many artists are also exploring innovative techniques and materials.
Highlighting Featured Artists in the Skate Community
Highlighting featured artists celebrates their creative contributions and provides an opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to discover unique skateboard art pieces.
Displaying Your Skateboard Wall Art
Creative Ways to Hang Skateboards
Here's a suggestion on how to display skateboards:
Use skateboard wall mounts to showcase your decks. You can create a striking visual display by:
- Securing each deck with a skateboard wall mount.
- Arranging multiple skateboards in a grid pattern.
Framing vs. Unframed Options
The best choice between framed and unframed decks depends on your personal style and the overall decor of your space. Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Framed Decks | Unframed Decks |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic | Elevated artistic presentation | Raw, authentic skate aesthetic |
| Benefit | Added protection | - |
Creating an Aesthetic Skateroom
Creating an aesthetic skateroom is about blending your passion for skateboarding with your personal style, using skateboard wall art as a centerpiece. Incorporate skate-themed decor to create a cohesive and visually appealing space.
Where to Shop for Skateboard Wall Art
Top Online Stores for Unique Decks
Explore online stores that specialize in artist decks. These stores often feature high-quality prints and custom artwork.
Exploring Local Art Shops and Collectibles
Local art shops and collectibles stores may carry unique artist decks. Local artists may also create custom skateboard artwork.
Price Ranges for Artist Decks
Price ranges for artist decks vary depending on factors such as artist popularity, design rarity, and materials used. Custom skateboard decks and limited-edition prints tend to command higher prices.