San Quentin resident artists displayed wooden skateboards painted in a variety of artistic styles to help raise funds to local disadvantaged youth.
The eighth annual skateboard art donation event opened July 6 at Eureka’s Epitome Gallery. The 25 skateboards went on display for a month before selling for $150 each.
“I have a special connection to disadvantaged youth. I was a ward of the state at 14 and skateboarding was an outlet for me,” resident Jefferey Isom said.
Chad Regan, a formerly incarcerated person, and now owner of Humboldt Skate Lab put on the fundraiser. According to Regan, the funds raised from selling the skateboards provided helmets, skateboards, and skate camp attendance to the Eureka youth involved with Big Brothers/Sisters, CASA, and Boys and Girls Teen Center.
“I am appreciative to have an opportunity to help disadvantaged youth,” resident Peter Thao said. “It means a lot to me when people from outside prison … use our art to connect and serve people in need.”
“This was my first time doing a donation. It is a joy to know underprivileged kids will have an opportunity to go to a summer camp because of my artwork,” Tony Haro said.
William James Association outside facilitator Carol Newborg said this group effort marked the first time San Quentin residents have participated in the skateboard art project. She added that former San Quentin resident and current William James Association employee Henry Frank coordinated and delivered the 25 skateboards.
San Quentin artists had a busy winter and spring, according to Newborg. “Everyone is interested in the work being done in San Quentin and the residents look forward to expressing themselves through their art.”
“Working on this skateboard project allowed me to give back to the community,” resident Erick Maciel said. “Knowing the money raised will help kids skate safely and provide protective gear is rewarding.”
Residents in San Quentin have lent artwork to exhibits at UC Santa Cruz and the Richmond Art Center “The View From Here.” Projects Mural Arts of Philadelphia collaborated with San Quentin to display artwork at the Paradigm Gallery in Philadelphia, and at the Mill Valley Public Library in Marin County.
“When the artwork goes out, the resident artists feel seen and heard,” Newborg said. “It provides healing for residents and is educational for the public.”
