Get ready to be blown away by sheer talent!
You’re about to embark on an exclusive journey through our captivating interview with none other than the extraordinary Steve Duque, the brilliant mind behind Duque Skate Art.
Brace yourself for mind-boggling, awe-inspiring work stretching artistic expression’s boundaries. Steve’s jaw-dropping masterpieces utterly spellbound us, and we couldn’t resist the chance to introduce him to the world.
So, buckle up and join us as we dive deep into the realm of his artistic process and uncover the stories that breathe life into his creations. So let’s get this interview shaping up into something!
SPS – Can you tell us where you’re from and what it was like growing up with the skate scene there?
DSA – I was born and raised in Rhode Island. Ever since I started skating in 96’ we’ve always had a strong skate scene. A bunch of us rallied together and pushed and petitioned for a skate park in our town. When it was built a lot more skaters emerged.
SPS – What motivated you to begin making art out of skateboards?
DSA – In the summer of 2012, I watched “Second Nature,” a skateboarding documentary by Janne Saario. He has used cuts of decks to build a wall art piece, and I thought it was awesome.
At the time, I had a broken napkin holder on one side. So I decided to use an old deck to fix my napkin holder. He inspired me to use discarded material I already had.
SPS – Would you mind sharing details on how you create such amazing pieces? We’re really curious about your process.
DSA – I collect skateboards throughout my community. The boards then get degripped using heat, then cut down into smaller prices. The pieces are then sanded and glued to prep for the projects. I use bandsaws, a hand sander, a drill press, and a lathe to build each piece.
SPS – How long does it typically take to finish, let’s say, one of the dishes you make, and how many skateboard pieces would you use to create it?
DSA – A skateboard dish typically takes 4-5 hours to make. The dishes are usually made usually 3 decks. Each deck is sanded, glued, and cut. Then attached to my lathe and carved into its final design.
Carving is the most time-consuming step.
SPS – What has been your favorite piece you’ve created so far?
DSA – My favorite piece thus far is a side table I made for my Dad a few years ago. He loves it uses it daily.
SPS – Have you come across challenges or obstacles during the design process?
DSA – For sure, especially in the first 5 years of Duque Skate Art. I took woodworking in high school but then I didn’t do any for 12 years before I started Duque Skate Art. When I started I had no tools, I had to borrow them from my dad. After about a week or two, I bought a belt sander and scroll saw to help speed up the process.
SPS – How has the skateboarding community responded to your artwork?
DSA – I am grateful to say the response has been overwhelmingly positive. From homies to friends/family to strangers I meet at my markets. I enjoy talking about my process and showing my work.
SPS – Looking back when you first started creating pieces, How much have you progressed, Do you remember your first piece(of art) lol?
DSA – Man looking back at when I started with key chains and pens, it’s certainly changed a bit. I have learned certain techniques that help create the pieces I have in mind. Like anything, it takes years of practice to get things how you envision them.
My first piece of art was a wall piece. I made one that resembled a subway map. From that project, the napkin holder followed.
SPS – You’ve been pretty successful in this venture so far, where do you see Duque Skate Art heading in the future?
DSA – I would hire a helper in my shop in a year or so. It would be cool to connect with other shops that are interested in Duque Skate Art.
SPS – Where can customers reach out if they want to make a purchase?
DSA – I can be reached by Dm on IG/FB, my handle is @DuqueSkateArt. Also via email at [email protected]
SPS – Any last shoutouts?
DSA – Big ups to Guido and the staff at Civil. My wife Lissette, my family, Angel, Fresh Skate group, and Cumby Crew.
Thank you to anyone that has supported Duque Skate Art. Much love!