Ed Templeton is easily one of the biggest influences in my creative life. Whether he is inventing tricks that have changed skateboarding forever, pulling out his bruised radballs in Welcome To Hell (0:28), painting or drawing intense shit, shooting stunning and captivating photos, or shredding your fucking face off via his skateboard- the dude is always on one…a fucking good one at that. He has EARNED every single one of his talents- he wasn’t just “blessed” with them; making Ed one hardcore, persevering motherfucker. Ed Templeton- I love you. You’re a true inspiration, no matter what you’re doing. Thank you.
First of all, congratulations on having your son William Dexter Jackson. How has having a son changed your life?
I don’t think of change.
Why did you have the baby in New Zealand?
To be patriotic.
What is your favorite word?
Backwards.
It was a big year for you, with the baby and two videos. Can you talk about how you got the inspiration to make each video?
Inspiration is a concept. The only thing I can think of for inspiration is Michelangelo. In an aesthetic way, he’s all that comes to mind. In a physical way, I don’t know… Skateboarding—I don’t know if it’s static or physical.
How was Gnar Gnar different from Gnaughty?
Just different names, I guess.
What turns you on?
The hype.
What turns you off?
Hypodermic needles.
Are you still determined to kickflip a bike?
Yes.
What’s it gonna take?
A few more people who don’t think I can do it and think that I’m basically full of shit.
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TOP THREES
Cars:
1. One that drives
2. One that kind of drives
3. One that’s in the shop being serviced
Spots:
1. Manny rips the spot
2. Mo gets pissed
3. Jack hammers the spot
Music:
1. Of course, Morrissey
2. And before that Elvis
3. And after that Johnny Holiday
Video parts?
That’s stupid
Movies?
I haven’t got any
All-time skaters?
1. Jay Adams
2. Glen Friedman
3. Jay Adams
What’s your favorite curse word?
Banana-flavored asshole.
Fellow skater and master of the rock ‘n’ roll, Ben Bridgers, has an art show opening this Saturday. It’s is at the Miramar Gallery in the Pomona Arts Colony.
