Gary,
First off how’s life been with caring for the new son and also taking over Galaxie Skateshop?
life’s real good. Been busy as hell but its been good for sure. Personally and business-wise. Having a store to feature your own product has been key to keep instrument growing.
Instrument has some of the best dudes around riding for you and supporting you. Any team news or any projects with them in the works?
Well there’s definitely a big project in the works but I don’t wanna let it outta the bag just yet. Team wise we’re set, that’s for sure. We have all the areas heavy hitters.
Instruments always coming out with new designs and fresh product every season with your own style. Where do you pull your inspiration from and what keeps you motivated?
I pull my motivation from everywhere. Music, art, and skateboarding, but mostly thrugh the people I encounter while skating and traveling. I stay motivated by knowing what I do or have done has made a difference as far as how Cincinnati skateboarding is percieved, both inside and out.
Why is it so important for you to keep it real in Cincinnati. Why haven’t you taken the route of moving to places like California or New York like most others do?
I havent taken the that route for a number of reasons. 1. I love Cincinnati. 2. I’ve already done all the riding for California companies. 3. I wanna build something from Cincinnati so kids around here don’t have to move to Cali or NYC, just to get a little recognition. We can build our own dreams right here, verses chasing someone else’s.
This seasons line up has some sick collaboration a lot of people are hyped on. How’d it come about working with Ben Giska and Al?
Well, working with Al has been a constant since Instrument started. He’s like my brother. We’ve done a lot together over the years so keeping it going made perfect sense. With Ben it was more of just recognizing talent. Ben submitted some graphics and as soon as I saw them, i knew it had to happen.
Any big news from you or Instrument in the future?
We do have some big news but it’s gonna have to wait a bit longer to let out. With Instrument, we’re gonna just keep working, skating, and making Cincinnati proud.
Any last words?
Thanks to all the Instrument riders, and thanks to everyone who rides our boards and supports us in any way. Keep it rippy.
