Clarence Klingebeil

I was first exposed to the world of skateboarding through my friend and roommate, professional skater John Grigley. When I expressed an interest in taking portraits at skate parks, he immediately agreed to help me and made introductions to some of his friends, allowing me access to this world. One thing led to another and soon I would begin heading to skate parks on my own. I would make weekly, sometimes daily visits to the skateparks of NYC. The people I have photographed have been without exception, very kind and generous with their time.

For the past 25 years, I have worked as a fashion photographer, and occasionally a celebrity portrait photographer, though my passion was in portraiture. For the first time in my long career, I feel like I am taking the photographs that I’ve always wanted to take in my series “Skate Homies.”

“These are raw, honest portraits of skaters in their element; they are gritty and beautiful all at once. I am honored to be included.” — Tony Hawk