Shawn Powers: From Skate Crew to Palace's Creative Universe
Shawn Powers, an artist and skater affiliated with Palace Skateboards, shares insights into his artistic journey and sources of inspiration. He perceives art as a testament to existence and aspires for recognition in museums. His teenage years were shaped by interests such as Eye Spy games and action figures, drawing from the world around him. Powers' partnership with Palace commenced through the Palace Wayward Boys Choir, which aided his recovery from personal challenges. He values the brand's VHS skate videos and energetic music. Palace has shifted his trajectory from a potential janitor in New York to a traveling artist. Presently, he is crafting an ongoing poem that explores themes of health, skating, and artistry. This interview is part of a series showcasing Palace's creative landscape, launched by Lev Tanju and Gareth Skewis in 2009.
Key facts
- Shawn Powers is an artist and skater associated with Palace Skateboards.
- Powers describes his art as a way to feel alive and leave proof of his existence.
- He aims for his work to be in museums and cool books.
- Powers was inspired by Eye Spy games, coloring books, and dismantling action figures as a teenager.
- He has sold pieces to collectors who own Basquiats and Warhols.
- Powers credits Palace with helping him rebuild after personal struggles.
- He appreciates Palace's use of VHS in their skate videos and the associated music.
- Currently, Powers is working on a never-ending poem and creating paintings and statues.
- Palace Skateboards was founded by Lev Tanju and Gareth Skewis in 2009.
- Stuart Hammond is the lead creative for Palace Skateboards and a founding member of the Palace Wayward Boys Choir.
Entities
Artists
- Shawn Powers
- Stuart Hammond
- Lev Tanju
- Gareth Skewis
Institutions
- Palace Skateboards
- Palace Wayward Boys Choir
- Wallpaper*
Locations
- New York
- London
- Korea
- Japan
- Flushing Main Street
- Chinatown
- Little Italy
- Upstate New York
- Long Island