Reimagining Skate Videos: Mike Ternasky's Impact at Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image in Queens, NY, recently launched “Recording the Ride: The Rise of Street-Style Skate Videos,” adding to the growing list of skateboarding exhibitions within museums. This exhibit, curated by veteran skate videographer Jacob Rosenberg and Michaela A. Ternasky-Holland, the filmmaker and daughter of Plan B’s Mike Ternasky, focuses on the landmark videos that have shaped skate videography.

The exhibit prominently features Plan B’s iconic video trilogy: Questionable, Virtual Reality, and Second Hand Smoke. On opening night, Jacob Rosenberg, joined by skateboarding legends Rick Howard and Matt Hensley, discussed Mike Ternasky’s profound influence on how skateboard videos are perceived today. This article delves into excerpts from that insightful conversation, highlighting the relationship between Jacob and Mike, how Mike shaped Plan B’s video legacy, and the evolution of skate videos.

Table of Contents

Mike Ternasky’s Vision and Influence

Mike Ternasky wasn’t just a skateboarder; he was a visionary who understood the power of video to capture the essence of skateboarding. His approach was revolutionary, moving away from simple documentation to create compelling narratives that showcased both the athleticism and artistry of skateboarding. This approach was evident in Plan B’s videos, which are now considered classics of the genre. The museum exhibit honors this legacy, bringing to light the techniques and philosophies that made Ternasky a pivotal figure in skate videography.

Jacob Rosenberg, who had a close working relationship with Mike, provided insights into Mike’s unique approach. Mike emphasized the importance of capturing the individual style of each skater. He wasn’t just about filming tricks; he focused on the skater’s personality, their creativity, and their overall presence on the board. This was a stark contrast to many skate videos of the time, which often felt like a collection of tricks without much depth or context. Ternasky’s videos had a clear narrative, highlighting the journey of the skaters and the culture surrounding them, giving the audience a more immersive experience.

The Plan B Video Legacy

The Plan B videos showcased at the exhibit, Questionable, Virtual Reality, and Second Hand Smoke, are prime examples of Ternasky’s innovative approach. Questionable introduced the world to a new level of skateboarding, blending high-impact skating with a raw and energetic feel. Virtual Reality further pushed the envelope, with its experimental editing and futuristic soundtrack, reflecting the changing landscape of skateboarding. Second Hand Smoke continued this trajectory, showing off more technical skating and adding more of a lifestyle element to the video.

A screenshot from a skate video, illustrating the dynamic action and editing style typical of Plan B

These videos were not just about the tricks; they were about the skaters, their stories, and the lifestyle they embodied. They had a cinematic feel, with music and editing enhancing the overall impact. Mike’s attention to detail, the camera angles, the music selection, and the editing style, all contributed to a viewing experience that captivated audiences and influenced countless filmmakers in the skateboarding world. His approach made Plan B’s videos stand out and earned them a place in skate history.

Another screenshot from a Plan B skate video, highlighting the unique camera angles and dynamic action

Early Days of Skate Videos

The conversation at the Museum of the Moving Image also explored the early days of skate videos. Before the high production values of Plan B and other modern videos, skate videos were simpler and more amateur. Mike Ternasky’s influence was essential in elevating the genre from basic documentation to art form. He pushed the boundaries of what a skate video could be, both from a filmmaking and skateboarding perspective. The early days of skate videos were a lot less structured, and skaters were mostly just trying to record their friends and their skating sessions.

Ternasky’s ability to blend different styles and techniques was also discussed at the exhibit’s opening. He integrated elements of documentary filmmaking, music videos, and even action movies into his skate videos, creating something entirely unique. This innovation has paved the way for how skate videos are made today. He recognized the importance of not just capturing the tricks but also capturing the atmosphere and the culture of skateboarding.

A group of people watching a skateboarding video, reflecting the community aspect of skate culture

The Lasting Impact

The “Recording the Ride” exhibit at the Museum of the Moving Image is a tribute to Mike Ternasky’s enduring legacy. It underscores how his innovative approach to skate videos shaped the way we view skateboarding today. By understanding his vision and techniques, current and future filmmakers can better appreciate the evolution of skate videography and strive to create more impactful and meaningful content within the skateboarding community. The exhibit not only celebrates the past but also inspires future generations of filmmakers and skaters to push boundaries and continue the evolution of skate videos.

The event and exhibit served as a reminder of how much impact Mike Ternasky had on the world of skateboarding, beyond the tricks and maneuvers. His work ethic, unique vision, and dedication to storytelling through video, have left a lasting impact on the culture and how the world perceives skateboarding as a whole.