What do skateboarders and fine artists have in common? Take a look.
Detour, a mixed-media group exhibit of street culture imagery, intends to show the similarities between graffiti, painting, photography and skateboarding, and to promote urban culture. The exhibit is the result of the combined efforts of Circus Posterus, Covivant Gallery, Skatepark of Tampa, Hyde Park Fine Arts and Prospects Productions.
Many of the artists are active in the skateboard community and rooted in the lifestyle, one that's grounded in rebellion, passion and freedom. Included are works by skateboard industry designers, media figures and professional skateboarders.
Participating artists include Ed Templeton, Jose Gomez, Scott Knecht, Atiba Jefferson, Tobin Yelland, P$ynner, Ron Ricardo, and dozens more, all of whom created original artworks on recycled skateboard decks.
The works themselves capture the look and feel of the artists' urban environments. Some works involve social criticism. Some works are simply designs. The exhibit's opening night features musical performances by DJs Cindy and Blenda, posthardcore band Bliss and underground hip-hop group Red Tide. There's also live painting and graffiti.
In addition to the exhibit, Philadelphia artist Jim Houser is going to do a mural on one of the half-pipes at Skatepark of Tampa during the 2002 Pro Street/Vert Contest, taking place March 14-17. Houser is a self-taught artist known for his skateboard graphics as well as for being prolific in the fine arts.
The opening takes place from 8 p.m. to midnight Friday, March 15; admission costs $5. The exhibit runs through March 30, with no cost for admission. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Covivant Gallery, 4906 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. 813-928-4661.
This article appears in Mar 13-19, 2002.