I designed a series of cut-out paper skateboard models as an awareness initiative for Skateistan, the international NGO that uses skateboarding as a tool for youth empowerment and education.
The project functioned as a social-media–led guerrilla arts campaign, aiming to spread awareness in an organic, participatory way. Users could download printable templates directly from Skateistan’s website and social channels, assemble the miniature skateboards, and then place them in public spaces — bars, restaurants, skateparks, shops — as small, unexpected reminders of the organisation’s mission.
Each model carried the Skateistan logo and a QR code linking back to the site, connecting the physical gesture to a digital action
To extend engagement, we developed limited-edition variations timed around key events and fundraising drives. Fans were invited to customise and submit their own decorated boards to be showcased in an online gallery in exchange for a small donation. This turned the project into both a creative community activity and a micro-fundraising tool — transforming the humble paper model into a vehicle for participation, advocacy, and storytelling.
n.b. I was delighted when the initiative found unexpected life as a teaching aid in a school in Burma – we were sent pictures of kids with their customised versions completely out of the blue.
Client: Skateistan
Input: Art direction, concept, Design & layout
