Memento mori means a reminder of death. In art, imagery associated with mortality can encourage reflection on the passing of time and the limits of life.
Read symbols in context
The Metropolitan Museum of Art describes a skull beside lovers on a historical rosary bead as memento mori imagery. That is a documented example of a symbol being understood through the object and its context.
A skull in a contemporary skate graphic may have a different purpose. It could be humorous, decorative or part of a brand identity, so do not assign the same meaning automatically.
Distinguish mood from an art movement
Dark backgrounds, dramatic contrast and unsettling subjects can produce a gothic atmosphere in an interior. Gothic as a styling description is not always the same as Gothic art in an art-historical sense.
Likewise, a dramatic classical painting is not necessarily a memento mori work simply because it depicts violence.
Consider the image as wall art
Look at the subject, contrast and amount of detail. A darker piece can become a focal point on either a light or dark wall, depending on the image and lighting.
Give detailed work room to be viewed closely rather than surrounding it with competing decoration.
Choose with accurate attribution
Keep the artist and original title visible when a deck reproduces a historical work. A printed adaptation is not the original painting.
Select the imagery for the meaning and visual presence it has for you, without needing a claim about future rarity or a particular collector market.
Sources and further context
Related reading
- Renaissance Art on Skateboard Decks: Composition and Display
- Skateboard Wall Art for Grey, White and Black Interiors
Explore skateboard wall art at DeckArts. Check each product page for current specifications, what is included and ordering information.
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