Kevin Kowalski's versatile skills and creative approach have led to a successful pro skate career in the massive concrete skateparks of the Oregon coast. When Kevin skates in Lincoln City, WJ, and Harrisburg, people are blown away by his moves. We're thrilled to have Kevin on the team and can't wait to see what untapped spots he discovers or creates. Best regards, Kevin!
So let's start with a quick question: Where are you from? Where did you start skateboarding?
I'm from the Oregon coast, and I started skateboarding around the time the Lincoln City skatepark was built.
What's a typical day like on the Oregon coast?
I clean the bowl in the backyard, play with my dog, go to the beach, get some fresh seafood, and skate somewhere. There are so many great parks around here that it's easy to change up where I skate each day.
Here's why Kevin calls the Oregon Coast home | Photo: Squid
You seem to view spots and skateparks differently than other skateboarders. What's your process for finding unique spots?
Certainly, going around skateparks in Oregon and not having the same type of skateparks when you go to other places has helped spark ideas for different ways to skate.
Do you think your upbringing influenced your skating?
Yes, it definitely influenced me. There were a lot of good skateparks, but the harsh winter weather motivated me to travel more, enter contests, and film projects on skate trips. And it's great to be back in my hometown, where the best skateparks are.
Method? Melon? Photo: Squid
When did you start to like Mercyful Fate?
They've always been my favorite band. Their music reminds me of skateboarding. I had some footage I wanted to use for a video part, and I thought their music would be a perfect fit. I pitched the idea to King Diamond, showed him the footage to go with the song, and asked Blood Wizard to make the board and Portal Dimension to make the shirts. They loved it, and we were able to release it during the tour. I got to see them live, and the video part was released on Halloween morning. Mercyful Fate is awesome! Thank you, Mercyful Fate!
Who's the most metal person at Blood Wizard?
Probably Chris Gregson
Who's the least metal?
I don't think that's possible, we're all metal!
You look like you're skating Lincoln City with ease, when did you start skating the park?
It started when the park was first built. There were a lot of skaters I looked up to, and it's still a fun skate park that many people visit. What is Portal Dimension? My friends and I have always wanted to pour our creativity and imagination into creating something that people would love.
What is Portal Dimension?
I always wanted to pour my creativity and imagination into something that my friends and I could make that people would love.
With blue skies, it doesn't seem like Oregon. | Photo: Squid
Why Tactics?
I've been following what Tactics is doing in the Pacific Northwest and thought it was really cool, so I'm excited to be a part of it. I had a really good time at the Northwest Open at Seek Skate Camp last summer and can't wait for the next one!
What's your favorite skatepark in Oregon?
It's Lincoln City!
Is there anything else you'd like to say in closing?
Skateboarding is fun! Keep on skateboarding forever. Thank you everyone!
