UA’s Arts LIFT program unites Akron high school students, artists and skate culture

University of Akron (UA) faculty and student artists worked with Akron Public Schools high school students to transform blank skateboard decks into original works of art through Arts LIFT, a community-engaged youth arts education program based in the Myers School of Art at UA now in its 25th year.

This year's Arts LIFT program, which ran Aug. 10-14, brought high school students into the Myers School of Art print studio to work alongside professional artists and University mentors while exploring printmaking, mixed media and skateboard design.

Students worked with Meryl Engler, printmaking faculty member and professional artist, and Owen McSparran, UA art education major and Arts LIFT artist assistant. Throughout the week, participants are learning print and mixed-media processes and applying those techniques to the design of their own skateboard decks.

The project also connected students directly with Akron's skateboarding and creative communities through a partnership with Need Skateshop, owned by Kyle Mowery. Need Skateshop generously provided skateboard decks for the project and welcomed Arts LIFT participants into the shop to experience the intersection of art, design and skate culture firsthand, including a visit with shop cat Lucy. Mowery also helped students complete their boards by setting up trucks and wheels at the conclusion of the project.
The collaboration culminated in a public exhibition of skateboard designs created by Arts LIFT participants, held Aug. 17-21 at Need Skateshop. The community is invited to celebrate the student artists at a public closing reception on Friday, Aug. 21, from 6-7 p.m. at Need Skateshop. The exhibition and reception give students the opportunity to see their work presented and celebrated in a professional community setting. Need is located at 30 N. High Street in Akron.

\Students also met with Jay Croft, former University of Akron Myers School of Art student, who is an artist, muralist, skater and founder of his creative business, Street Canoe. Croft shared his creative practice, discussed his current exhibition at Need Skateshop and offered students insight into his design process, influences and experience building a professional creative practice rooted in art and skate culture.

"This year's Arts LIFT project gives students an opportunity to see that art doesn't have to stay on a wall or in a classroom," said Dr. Elisa Gargarella, UA associate professor of art education and the Arts LIFT founder and director. "They are working alongside professional artists, learning new processes, connecting with Akron's creative community and making something that reflects their own identities and ideas. The skateboard becomes both an artwork and something that belongs to the culture they are exploring."

Arts LIFT connects area youth with practicing artists, UA students and faculty, and community partners through intensive, hands-on arts experiences. The program emphasizes mentorship, experimentation, creative confidence and connections between young artists and Northeast Ohio's broader creative community.

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