The Creative Force of Skateboarding: Andy Jenkins

Skateboarding has always been more than just a sport—it’s a culture, an art form, and a way of life. Few people embody this fusion of creativity and skateboarding quite like Andy Jenkins. While he may not be known for landing the biggest tricks or dominating contests, his influence on skateboarding is undeniable. From his early days on a board to his groundbreaking work in skate art and design, Andy Jenkins has left an indelible mark on the industry.

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Andy Jenkins grew up moving frequently due to his father’s career in the Air Force. His childhood took him across various locations, but he eventually settled in Cheyenne, Wyoming before moving to Denver, Colorado for art school. His first encounter with skateboarding came in the early 1970s when he got his hands on a plastic Makaha banana deck. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1980s that he truly embraced skateboarding, starting with a Rob Roskopp Monster deck.

The Artistic Side of Skateboarding

While Jenkins skated, his true passion lay in art and storytelling. He was always drawing, inspired by his father’s painting and the art books he studied as a child. His artistic journey led him to create Wrench Pilot, a comic strip that became a cult favorite among skateboarders. His unique style, blending humor and surrealism, resonated deeply with the skateboarding community.

Sponsors and Industry Influence

Andy Jenkins became a key figure in the skateboarding industry, particularly through his work with Girl Skateboards and Chocolate Skateboards. His designs and creative direction helped shape the visual identity of these brands, making them some of the most recognizable names in skateboarding. Over the years, he collaborated with major brands like Nike, Vans, Oakley, Stussy, and Burton Snowboards, bringing his artistic touch to everything from skateboard graphics to apparel.

Pro Model Decks and Video Sections

While Jenkins wasn’t a professional skateboarder in the traditional sense, his influence extended to skateboard graphics and design. His work with Girl Skateboards included collaborations with legendary skaters like Eric Koston and Mike Carroll, creating decks that were not only functional but also works of art. His contributions to skateboarding videos were more behind the scenes, helping shape the creative direction of projects rather than appearing in them himself.

What’s He Up to Now?

After decades of shaping the skateboarding world through his art, Andy Jenkins continues to be an influential figure. He has rejoined Crailtap as a creative director, bringing his signature style back to the brands that helped define modern skateboarding. His work remains as fresh and innovative as ever, proving that skateboarding isn’t just about tricks—it’s about creativity, culture, and pushing boundaries.

Andy Jenkins is a testament to the idea that skateboarding is more than just riding a board—it’s an art form, a lifestyle, and a community. His contributions have helped shape the visual and cultural landscape of skateboarding, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.

Raiders of the Archives: Andy Jenkins Part 1 of 7

Not to Scale: Andy Jenkins

Girl Skateboards | B-Ball Series by Andy Jenkins | Crailtap Classics