For years, skateboarding coverage in China has often highlighted the spots while overlooking the local skaters. Now, a new edit is changing the narrative, showcasing a Shanghai-based crew’s journey to Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis with a population three times the size of Austria. This emerging scene signals a significant shift, hinting at the immense potential of skateboarding in China.
Will Cui and Joe Zhou, the masterminds behind this homie edit and its accompanying zine, offer their insights into the future of Chinese skateboarding. Their perspectives reveal a unique blend of influences and a desire to forge an authentic skate culture.
Q&A: William Cui & Joe Zhou on the Chinese Skate Scene
Western skaters have primarily been exposed to Chinese skate spots, often overlooking the skaters themselves. Can you describe the current state of the Chinese skate scene?
W: The skate scene here is vibrant and authentic. Skaters work hard, skate hard, and live and breathe skateboarding. They are dedicated to the lifestyle. Several skate brands and crews are actively creating videos, further solidifying the scene.
However, the rise of skate schools due to the Olympics has created a unique dynamic. Skateboarding is marketed as a beneficial sport for kids, leading parents to invest heavily in lessons. Many skate shops now depend on these lessons for survival. If skateboarding were to be removed from the Olympics, these training facilities might struggle.
Another challenge is the presence of government-funded skate teams in various cities and provinces. These teams recruit skaters and train them in a regimented environment, resembling a military training camp. While the skaters may be compensated, the emphasis is on winning, potentially overshadowing the enjoyment of skateboarding.
I have no issues with the skaters participating in the Olympics. But skateboarding transcends the definition of a sport.
A skater performs a trick in an urban setting
Given the relative youth of the skate scene in China, do you feel the need to emulate established skate scenes from other parts of the world?
W: While learning from established scenes is valuable, we also recognize our distinct cultural background. Our goal is for skate culture to evolve naturally. The influence of the Olympics raises concerns about maintaining the core values of skateboarding – the spirit of being outcasts and misfits, resisting mainstream trends. We need to stay true to the roots of skateboarding while also embracing the unique characteristics of the Chinese experience.
Chongqing, like many Chinese cities, is constantly evolving with new construction and architecture. How does this rapid development impact the skate scene?
W: We chose Chongqing for its hilly terrain and raw, urban atmosphere. Many Chinese cities are becoming homogenized due to industrialization and urbanization. We are drawn to the unique aesthetics of Chongqing, where older structures blend with new developments. We want to showcase the raw and unique aspects of Chinese cities, moving away from the polished marble spots and grand high-rises.
What is your perspective on the rapid industrialization happening across China?
W: Witnessing the industrialization firsthand is a profound experience. Major cities are expanding outwards, transforming suburban areas. Farmlands are replaced by factories and warehouses. Chinese cities are becoming massive, making it necessary to travel further to experience nature. This rapid transformation has a significant impact on the environment and the lifestyle of residents.
A wide shot of a skater in a city landscape
In your video, what are the five buildings in the background of the shot with the red chair? And where did you find the bull for the last shot?
W: The five buildings are newly constructed residential buildings in a Chongqing suburb, possibly still unoccupied. Joe discovered the location through an Instagram account featuring surreal landscapes.
The field in the final shot is a construction preparation site. The mud is piled to prepare the foundation, which takes a long time. During this period, the wild grass grows and local people graze their cattle there. The bulls were simply there, enjoying the grass. They’re majestic animals!
Why do you prefer filming with a VX-1000 over an HD camera? Is it difficult to find tapes and parts for the VX in China?
W: Joe and I will always be VX advocates. As Jamie Thomas said, “It’s in the blood, and it’s a statement.” Finding tapes on Taobao [a major online shopping platform in China] is still relatively easy, but locating a VX in good working condition is almost impossible. VX parts are also scarce. We’re constantly searching for spare parts to keep our VX cameras running. The VX-1000 provides a classic, raw aesthetic that perfectly complements the spirit of skateboarding.
Where does the music featured in the video come from?
J: Years ago, I went to a religious performance in Beijing and was captivated by this mysterious song with prominent drum beats. When we were exploring Chongqing, I remembered this song, and it seemed to perfectly complement our footage.
A skater ollies over a metal beam
Which skate videos have influenced you and your crew?
W: Growing up in China, we didn’t have access to local skate videos. We heard about 411VM, but didn’t see any skate videos until I went to live abroad. The Girl videos, Habitat videos, TWS videos, and 411VMs have shaped my understanding of skateboarding.
J: Magenta’s Old Woops New Groove deeply impacted my approach to filming skateboarding. I was fascinated by their handheld VX filming technique and was introduced to BADBADNOTGOOD. Outside of skateboarding, Tibetan director Pema Tseden is one of my favorite filmmakers.
What are your thoughts on videos like Pretty Sweet, which primarily feature American skaters skating in China?
W: I’m excited that foreign skaters are skating in my motherland. After watching teams shred spots in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, I hope more foreign skaters will explore other cities in China. There’s so much potential beyond the well-known locations.
Why should the skate industry and everyday skaters be interested in Chinese skateboarding?
W: The skate industry should recognize China as a promising market with a well-developed infrastructure and massive population. We are capable of producing anything here, but the skate culture is still evolving, necessitating thorough investigation before establishing distribution.
Everyday skaters are welcome to come explore our marble skate paradise and experience our culture after this pandemic. While we are relatively new to skateboarding, we can offer unique spots and a welcoming culture.
A group of skaters pose for a photo
What is daily life like in China currently?
W: Life in Shanghai has largely returned to normal since the government successfully contained the virus. We have been able to travel, work, and live our lives since June 2020. While we still can’t travel abroad and wear masks in public places, life goes on. Lockdowns and restrictions are still enforced in areas experiencing occasional outbreaks.
With rising inflation and the soaring cost of living in America, how does the cost of living in a city like Chongqing compare?
W: Chongqing is relatively affordable. However, Shanghai is expensive! Housing prices are comparable to Tokyo and New York. Without a well-paying job in Shanghai, it’s difficult to afford to live in the city. Groceries are relatively inexpensive compared to the US. We’ve also noticed rising prices for skate products recently.
What are some common stereotypes about Americans that you hear in China?
W: American women are perceived as sexually open. American men are believed to be good at picking up girls. Americans are thought to be wealthy and living comfortable lives. Americans are stereotyped as enjoying partying with hard drugs.
A group of skaters stand together in an urban environment
This glimpse into the Chinese skate scene highlights the passion, creativity, and resilience of skaters in China. As the scene continues to develop, it promises to bring a unique perspective and energy to the global skateboarding community.
