Rochester

Merchants pair up for skateboard art competition

By Mary Beth Almond
C & G Staff Writer

ROCHESTER — When Christine Laikind was a child, her knees were covered with scrapes and bruises from falling off her skateboard.

“It drove my mother crazy,” she said with a chuckle.

Now a married mother of one, an adjunct professor at the College for Creative Studies, an abstract artist and the owner of Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio in downtown Rochester, Laikind hasn’t let go of the skateboard she spent so much time using when she was younger — although she says it doesn’t get as much use these days.

Still, every time she sees a skateboard, it reminds her of childhood and all the fun she had. Hoping to share her love of skateboarding — and art — with the community, Laikind joined forces with South Street Skateshop owners Von and Linda Gallaher to host a skateboard art competition.

“I had seen skateboard art competitions in other states, but I haven’t seen one here. I’m not aware of any that have taken place in Michigan, so I thought it would be fabulous to start one,” Laikind said.

Dubbed DeckArt 2011, the competition is open to middle school, high school and college students, as well as adults.

“We encourage anybody who’s interested in engaging their creativity to participate and express themselves,” said Linda Gallaher.

Those interested must drop off a $20 entry fee and entry form at Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio, 404 Main St. in downtown Rochester, by 8 p.m. April 8.

All participants will receive a blank skateboard to use as their canvas. Blank decks will be available for pickup at South Street Skateshop, 410 Main St., starting April 15, and participants will have about a month to work on their skateboards. Artwork may be even be 3-D, as long it can be hung on the wall, and any medium is accepted.

“We’re looking forward to seeing all kinds of unique pieces,” said Linda Gallaher.

Finished artwork can be dropped off at Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. May 17 and 18. Entries will not be accepted after that.

Laikind, avid skateboarder and mural artist Joe Ferry of South Street Skateshop, and tattoo artist Chase Golematis of XS Tattoos will judge the designs based on originality and craftsmanship.

“Basically, we’re looking for some sort of reflection of who they are,” Laikind said.

An opening reception, which is open to the public, will be held May 20 at Firebrick, and winners will be announced that night. Cash prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place, and an honorable mention winners from each age group will garner a free T-shirt from XS Tattoos.

“The more participants we get, the cash prize will go up,” Laikind said. “It’s just a fun way to share your artistic inspirations with the community of Rochester.”

For more information about South Street Skateshop, visit www.southstreetskatepark.com. For more information about Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio, visit www.firebrickgalleryandpotterystudio.com.

You can reach C & G Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at malmond@candgnews.com or at (586)498-1060.