🎨 Marc McKee: The Subversive Genius Behind Skateboarding's Most Iconic Graphics

When you think of skateboarding legends, your mind might jump to Tony Hawk or Rodney Mullen. But behind the scenes, shaping the culture with a pen instead of a board, was Marc McKee—a graphic artist whose wild imagination and fearless designs helped define an entire era of skateboarding.

🧒 Early Life & Entry into Skate Culture

Marc McKee was born and raised in Marin County, Northern California. Before he ever picked up a sketchpad for skate decks, he was deep into BMX riding and was even sponsored by Skyway BMX for flatland tricks. He appeared in the cult-favorite Dorkin’ in York 3 video, showcasing his freestyle skills.

His transition into skateboarding came through art. In 1989, McKee began designing graphics for RL Osborn’s company, Bully Bikes. That gig led him to Steve Rocco, the rebellious mastermind behind World Industries, who hired McKee to create graphics for his new skate brand. And just like that, McKee was thrust into the heart of skateboarding’s golden age.

🎨 The World Industries Era: Flameboy, Wet Willy & Devil Man

McKee’s work at World Industries wasn’t just influential—it was revolutionary. He created the brand’s infamous mascots: Flameboy, Wet Willy, and Devil Man. These characters weren’t just slapped on decks; they became cultural icons, appearing on apparel and even reaching kids who had never stepped on a skateboard.

His graphics were bold, controversial, and often hilarious. They pushed boundaries with uncensored themes and shock value, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of skateboarding in the late '80s and '90s. McKee’s designs helped World Industries become the biggest skate brand of its time, culminating in a $29 million sale in 1998.

🛹 Sponsors & Collaborations

While McKee wasn’t a pro skater himself, his art was the backbone of several major skate brands. He created graphics for:

• World Industries

• Blind

• 101

• Menace

• A-Team

• Almost

• Darkstar

• Cliché

His collaborations extended beyond decks—he was also an editor and part-owner of Big Brother magazine, a publication known for its irreverent tone and influence on skate culture.

📼 Video Sections & Cultural Impact

Though McKee wasn’t featured in traditional skate video parts, his BMX riding in Dorkin’ in York 3 is a fun footnote in his creative journey. His real “video section” was the visual language he built—every deck graphic told a story, sparked a reaction, and became part of skateboarding’s visual memory.

🤯 Fun Facts & Lesser-Known Tidbits

• He worked for Hustler magazine in the '90s, creating risqué cartoons for a “naughty” Christmas carol series.

• McKee was part of the chaotic, creative environment at World Industries, where deadlines were optional and ideas were king.

• He was known for pushing the envelope—if a graphic wasn’t ready, they'd simply print “graphic coming soon” in the catalog.

📍 What’s Marc McKee Up to Now?

Marc McKee continues to be involved in the art world, occasionally exhibiting his work and collaborating with brands that want to tap into that raw, nostalgic energy of '90s skateboarding. He’s still revered as one of the last great graphic artists in skateboarding, and his influence is felt in every irreverent, boundary-pushing deck design that dares to be different.

Marc McKee | The Nine Club With Chris Roberts - Episode 79