By Roger Jimenez
The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is hosting a groundbreaking exhibit titled PUSH | 80’s Skateboarding Photography, a retrospective of iconic skateboarding photography by J. Grant Brittain. Widely regarded as one of the most influential photographers in skateboarding culture, Brittain captured the sport's early days with a unique and compelling lens. The exhibit is particularly notable for including images of Tony Hawk as a 12-year-old skateboarder, showcasing his beginnings at Del Mar Skate Park in California, where Brittain worked as a pro shop manager. This collection marks the photographers first exhibition dedicated to skateboarding photography and will be on display through January 5, 2025.
The Historic Collaboration
The exhibit’s launch was marked by an exciting event featuring Tony Hawk himself. On November 7, the legendary skateboarder visited Orlando to share personal stories and reflect on his early days in skateboarding, offering the community a rare opportunity for intimate one-on-one interactions. A highlight of the event was a moderated discussion between Hawk and Brittain, celebrating their 40-year friendship and the shared journey that shaped modern skateboarding culture.
Credit: Orlando Museum of Art
This partnership highlights OMA’s dedication to celebrating contemporary culture while recognizing skateboarding’s journey from an underground movement to an Olympic-level sport.
Greater Orlando Sports Commission’s Support
The Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GOSC), a longstanding partner of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, has played a key role in supporting this exhibit. Their involvement reflects a broader mission to promote Orlando as a center for Olympic qualifiers and other major sports events, particularly in the lead-up to the 2028 LA Summer Olympics. Earlier this year, GOSC hosted the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and they continue to seek partnerships to elevate Olympic sports like skateboarding.
The exhibit is part of GOSC’s engagement with USA Skateboarding and coincides with their annual SPORTYS Awards Show, which will be held at OMA on December 4, 2024.
Event Details:
- PUSH Exhibit: November 7, 2024 - January 5, 2025.
- Location: Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
- Tickets: Available via OMA’s website
Overall
The PUSH exhibit at the Orlando Museum of Art showcases the transformative artistry of renowned skateboarding photographer J. Grant Brittain, displaying iconic images from the 1980s that include a young Tony Hawk. Open through January 5, 2025, the exhibit debuted with a special event featuring Tony Hawk and J. Grant Brittain in a moderated discussion about their 40-year collaboration. Supported by the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, this exhibit reinforces Orlando’s role as a hub for innovative sports and art experiences. Don't miss the chance to witness this historic intersection of sport and artistry.
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