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We often hear how much creative talent resides within the board-sports world, but when a representation of work from about 60 members of that world is actually assembled–as it was for Modart on Thursday, September 10 near the ASR trade show–the combined effect is almost dizzying in its scope.

More an "event" than an art show, Modart’s goals were multifaceted: an exhibition of photos, sculpture, and painted art from artists within our industry; a fashion show featuring twenty or so industry labels; and a get-down dance party beginning around midnight that would last into the wee hours.

The creation of Mona Mukherjea and Shaney-Jo Darden, and held in two adjacent (and as yet ungentrified) vacant storefront spaces in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp District, Modart kicked off at 8:00 p.m. with an artists’ reception. The large and enthusiastic crowd naturally gravitated to the room containing the live DJ band as well as the most food and drinks, but the true stars of this segment of the evening were found on the walls of both spaces.

Some of the highlights of works displayed–Jamie Lynn’s warm painted world of blue people; Mikey Basich’s sculpture and charcoals; Peter Line’s eerie oil pastel of a sad-eyed girl; Ed Templeton’s paintings and photos, including "Brad, Morning Boner"; Thomas Campbell’s huge 3-D canvas and rich photo imagery; Jeff Tremaine’s whimsical oils; Yogi’s stark photos; Andy Howell’s vivid graphic canvases, Dave Carnie’s startlingly dark dream images in black and white; Tod Swank’s line drawings; Mark McKee’s stunning and intricate painting, reminiscent of Robert Williams’ best work; Tina Basich’s watercolors; and Lance Mountain’s lovely primitive paintings based on his son’s designs. This collection was one of the best representations of boarders’ art ever compiled.

The fashion show was underway by 10:00 p.m. and also enjoyed a great turnout, with several members of the industry taking to the runway as models. And as promised, around midnight the party got further underway with more live music, which continued on through the night and well into what we call morning.

Modart provided a great example of how to please a wide range of people–offer them a little of everything! The event ran smoothly, and not only did it attract a diverse group of creative people, but a portion of the ten-dollar door charge went to the Boys and Girls Club of Carlsbad. Bravo! Best of all, Modart is booked for four days at next year’s Fall ASR show, so don’t miss it.