A Newquay skateboarding community group has launched a unique art auction to help build a new indoor skatepark in Cornwall.
TR7 Skateboarding has teamed up with 24 top artists to hand paint a one-off skate deck, which will be sold to the highest bidder towards its plan to relocate to a new larger facility in Roche.
Various well-known artists have designed a skateboard deck for the auction including Olly Howe and Ben Allen from Newquay, which is the final push TR7 needs to make the dream become a reality.
Other artists include Eloise Dörr, Spencer Shakespeare, Becca Hall, Ellie (Inkings By Ellie) Matthews, Paul Reisberg and Chantelle D’Souza. The online auction will end on December 17.
Chaz Merryweather from TR7 said: “Our unique art auction is a pivotal event in our fundraising efforts to secure the future of TR7 Indoor skatepark.
“Featuring 24 exceptional hand-painted skateboard decks by a diverse group of incredible artists, this auction represents the final push we need to break ground and hopefully start building our indoor skatepark in Cornwall.
“From a variety of styles, national and international, award-winning artists to local Cornish creatives who crafted these extraordinary skateboard decks. Scroll down to see all the names.
“Each deck is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, ready to hang on your wall and make a statement.”
Ben said: “I grew up skateboarding and it meant freedom.
“I’ve always been inspired by skate culture, the music and graphics that go hand in hand with it.
“I think skating is a great release and outlet for anyone involved and also to be part of a community of like-minded individuals. That’s why it’s so important to me to support the TR7 project.”
“The Hope series acknowledges the influence of the Pop Art masters of the 60s with a nod to the old-school screen-printing techniques and image appropriation favoured by Warhol and Lichenstein.”
The new park has been designed by skatepark architect Trevor Johnson and will be twice the size of the previous venue based at Treloggan Industrial Park, at 370-square feet. New features will include a small mini ramp, an open space to learn the basics, rails, ledges, and hips. There will also be a cafe area, and a versatile space that can be used for events, socialising, and collaborating with other community interest companies in Cornwall.
The TR7 project aims to offer workshops, events, and mentorship opportunities.
A youth mentorship programme will pair experienced skateboarders with younger participants to help them improve their skills and build confidence.
The team plan to launch an after-school programme that will provide a safe and supportive environment for students to learn new skills and make new friends.
A women and LGBTQ+ skateboarding programme is also on the agenda, as is an adaptive programme will provide specialised equipment such as its rope system and instruction to help people with disabilities or recovering from an injury get on board. Indoor surf training will additionally be offered at the new facility.
Ben has designed ‘Hope Series – New Era” for the art auction whilst Olly has created “Elysium.”
To make a bid visit app.galabid.com/tr7artauction/items/fa