Limited edition skateboards are like the Holy Grail for avid urban sports enthusiasts. Eric Koston understands this better than anyone and this is evident through his Numbers Edition shop which propels a sense of community. Described as "representing skateboarding in its truest form: pure, creative, and most importantly, fun," the activation helps tie the culture together through unique and special-edition products.
One of Eric Koston's most recent projects involved a series of limited edition skateboards that were designed in collaboration with Othelo Gervacio — a New York City-based artist who has previously worked with the likes of OFF-WHITE, NY Sunshine and Alchemist. The range presents decks that boast a grungy ethereal aesthetic which is largely indicative of Gervacio's stylistic approach and fits perfectly with the narrative of the urban sport.
Photo Credits: Numbers Edition
Artist-Made Limited Edition Skateboards
Eric Koston Partners with Emerging Artist Othelo Gervacio
Trend Themes
1. Limited Edition Collaborative Products - Collaborating with emerging artists to create unique and special products has the potential to build a sense of community and exclusivity among avid fans.
2. Art-inspired Urban Sports Gear - Blending art and sports through skateboards or other urban sports gear presents an opportunity to tap into niche markets and create visually appealing and functional products.
3. Grungy Ethereal Aesthetic - Embracing a grungy and ethereal aesthetic in urban sports gear design offers a new and edgy approach to traditional sportswear.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Equipment Manufacturing - By partnering with artists to create limited edition skateboards, sports equipment manufacturers can tap into art-inspired markets and create exclusive products.
2. Art and Design - Designing urban sports gear that integrates art and represents a unique design aesthetic has the potential to become a new, complimentary industry for artists.
3. Streetwear Fashion - Urban sports gear with a unique art-inspired design aesthetic creates an opportunity for a new type of streetwear fashion.