About Skateboarding
Words and photos by J. García
It’s hard not to get sentimental when I talk about skateboarding. I’ve been riding for over 30 years, and it’s given me a multitude of adventures, friendships, and life lessons. The images within this page are a testament to it.
In November 2023, I had the honor of speaking to a first-year Anthropology of Skateboarding class at UCLA, taught by my friend Justin Dunnavant. The experience took me down memory lane as I reflected on how skateboarding has shaped who I am and how I approach life. It was thrilling to share that with such an engaged group of freshmen students.
“I’ve been skating for 29 years. The best thing about skate trips is going to amazing places to skate and sightsee with your homies” – Kelly Hart
My talk focused on how we connect through skateboarding and how our shared passion facilitates understanding, mutual respect, and appreciation for one another.
“Skateboarding means freedom, something I enjoy either by myself or with friends.” – Chico Brenes
“Llevo corriendo skate por casi 35 años. Skate para mi es diversion, habilidad, relajación y amistad.” – Jose “Nuni” Rodriguez
“I’ve been skating for 35 years. Grinding a pool is one of the best feelings I’ve known in skateboarding. It can be cathartic, a fast thrilling ride…” – Fred Hofheinz
“I’ve been skating for 22 years. The urge to win a battle makes me keep coming back to a trick until I roll away” – JP Souza
As a kid, I was captivated by Peter Pan and the idea of never growing up. Maybe skateboarding became my own Neverland—a mindset where I stay the same kid who first discovered it all those years ago.
Skating hurts way more as I get older, but the joy and fulfillment it brings have not changed.
“I have been skating for over 40 years, and I would describe it as a human-powered rollercoaster” – Tim Guza
I’m thankful for that wooden plank on wheels, and I know a lot of fools out there feel the same. Cheers. J.