“For what it is” is a documentary and portrait-based project revolving around skateboarding culture and those within it. This project has become a symbol of what skateboarding is all about. Skating is not something that anyone can just pick up. It takes time. You must invest yourself in skateboarding to see it for what it is. This project has become poetic in itself due to the fact that the things I had to learn and areas I had to grow in were exactly what skaters have to deal with on the daily. Being a skater can bring on many problems. To be one though, you must understand how to adjust to what’s thrown at you and make the most out of it. Skateboarders are constantly falling on tricks, getting thrown out of spots, and learning to find solutions to their problems, whether on a board or off. Skateboarders are often seen as standoffish, but that is only because people don’t allow themselves to learn from their viewpoint. This pushes skaters to surround themselves with people like-minded to them, creating a bond stronger than any group I’ve ever seen. Their resilience and passion are something that every skater gains eventually, but something new skaters strive for in the beginning.

www.raymondalva.com | @rapberry

— 2022 Annual —