Keegan Valaika is a fan favorite, and someone who has seemingly taken more of a step back from snowboarding in the past few years. After notable parts in the Givin movies, Bozwreck, Eversince, In Color, VG movies, and more, it seems Keegan is now focusing more on his art. Check out some of his art below and take a look at his full Instagram to see what he has been working on.
If you do not know Keegan Valaika, he is a professional snowboarder known for his creativity, unique style, and influence in shaping modern street snowboarding. Hailing from Laguna Beach, California and growing up riding at Mammoth Mountain Resort, he gained recognition for his smooth and innovative riding, particularly in urban environments.
Throughout his career, Keegan has been featured in numerous video parts, many in the aforementioned paragraphs. Not only is he an insanely talented snowboarder and artist, but he is also a business man. He is the co-founder of Gnarly, a snowboard streetwear and outerwear brand that emphasized individuality and counter culture in the sport. His influence continues to inspire younger generations of riders to push boundaries and express themselves freely on and off the snow.
He has been posting art, after having just graduated from art school in New York. Some of his art, like the one above, are renditions of photos from his snowboarding days. Other ones are more abstract.
The intersection of art and snowboarding is not uncommon. When creativity, expression, and freedom are all vital values for the successful individuals with boards under their feet, it makes sense to pick up a pencil, paint brush, or musical instrument. Snowboarders use the mountain as a canvas, taking routes and doing tricks that reflect individual style and technique, much like an artist's brushstrokes. The culture surrounding snowboarding is deeply influenced by street art, graphic design, and fashion, with bold artwork adorning boards, apparel, and gear. Snowboard films and photography further capture this artistry. This blend of physical movement and visual creativity makes snowboarding not only a sport but also a form of self expression through art, and thus creates even more art.