There is an inherent similarity between artists and skateboarders; perhaps it’s that both have a ferocious commitment to alternative forms of creative expression, or maybe it’s that both have a blatant disregard for the conventional, which can be perceived by outsiders as strange and eccentric. Either way, I am endlessly drawn to both genres of individuals, for grabbing by the balls the things that most of us only fantasize about. Chad Muska, artistic skateboarder and skate-inspired artist, is the embodiment of over-the-top, outlandish, original style. The Saturday night opening for his new solo show Transitions at New Image Art Gallery was the reason for the congregation of all your early skateboard heroes in one room (and outside smoking cigarettes). Muska’s new series of sculptural paintings are textural, multi-dimensional, and in some cases, even skateable, and certainly indicative of the anomalous icon’s latest transition. Check out our recent video spotlight on The Muska as he pounds the pavement in preparation for his show.

words by Jane Helpern