Every time I enter the Belleview St. side of the Southside on Lamar building, I always wish I had a skateboard. That and I wish I knew how to skateboard. It looks like endless acres of smooth shiny concrete which seems to be, as my son says, “the perfect conditions for skateboarding.” So it seems fitting that the ART of Skateboarding Benefit is hosting it’s 2nd annual event at the Southside on Lamar and the Janette Kennedy Gallery (housed inside the building).

I attended last year and had an absolutely divine evening. This event has something for everyone, even us non-skate-boarder types. Plus, it’s presented by Nomad Arts, locally renown for their fabulous parties. The night kicks off with cocktails and appetizers starting at 7 p.m. allowing guests time to peruse the 200 displayed boards. The skateboards, designed by celebrity artists, art students, TSRHC patients, clothing designers, graphic designers and local artists, are the focus of the evening, with a silent auction beginning at 8:45 p.m. In addition to the silent auction, there will be a DJ, skateboarding demonstrations and a showing of the team video, along with a few words from Honorary Chairman Al Coker and Professional Skateboarder and former TSRHC patient/Honorary Chairman, Jon Comer.

Jon Comer is the first professional amputee skateboarder. A former TSRHC patient for more than 10 years, Jon wears a Prosthetic Limb. He is featured in the award-winning documentary “Never Been Done”. Jon earned the respect of skateboarding legends like Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and Mike Vallely who admire Jon’s success and determination. Jon pushes physical boundaries to pursue his life-long dream to achieve things that have never been done in the sport of skateboarding. His modest personality and sense of humor help inspire those with similar physical challenges. Whether a skateboarding fan or not, his life is a truly inspirational story to people of all ages and of all walks of life. Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas has worked closely with Jon & his family since he was a child.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital.

Art&Seek will be there with video cameras in tow, so please, tap us on the shoulder and give us your thoughts on this amazing benefit.

Below are a few pre-show videos with some of the key organizers.

2009 Promo:

2009 Pre-show interviews:

Tom Currie of Nomad Arts

Mike Crum – M.P.C. Productions

Bri Crum – Art of Skateboarding Chairperson

Below is Dallas-based artist Daniel Perez creating his skateboard artwork: