Bauhaus & De Stijl: Upcycling with Recycled Skateboard Decks

Aesthetic Inspiration

For my upcycle project, I have chosen to blend the Bauhaus and De Stijl aesthetics. This decision was largely influenced by my choice of material—old skateboard decks. The colorful, laminated layers of wood in skateboard decks create linear patterns when cut, aligning with both design movements.

I plan to repurpose these decks into a series of jewelry pieces, including rings and earrings, and possibly a bowl if extra material allows. The unique effect of laminated skateboards—vibrant stripes of color—resonates strongly with the bold geometric forms found in both Bauhaus and De Stijl design principles.

 

(Source: Galvan ize Blog, 2012)

Bauhaus Influence

The Bauhaus movement, known for its minimalist, functional, and geometric aesthetic, will be reflected in the clean lines and high contrast of my jewelry designs. Bauhaus principles emphasize a balance between form and function, making this an ideal inspiration for wearable art.

(Source: STL Art Supply)

For instance, German artist Pauli Bird creates geometric rings from recycled skateboard decks. Their work showcases the striking simplicity and color play I aim to incorporate into my designs. Below is an example of one of their pieces, which I plan to replicate in my own way.


(Source: Pauli Bird, n.d.)

De Stijl Influence

In addition to Bauhaus, I want to incorporate elements of De Stijl into my work. This movement is characterized by blocky compositions, bold primary colors, and strong lines—features that can be enhanced through a parquetry method.

By cutting sections of the skateboard into small diagonal pieces, layering them together, and then turning them on a lathe, I hope to create a De Stijl-inspired bowl.

(Source: Oshkosh Designs, 2014)

Through this project, I aim to use my artistic expression, staying true to both Bauhaus and De Stijl. The transformation of skateboard decks into geometric jewelry and decor aligns with the upcycling ethos—turning discarded materials into something new and functional.


Works Cited

  1. Galvanize Blog. “Recycled Skateboard Art.” Galvanize Blog, 2012, https://galvanizeblog.wordpress.com/2012/01/19/recycled-skateboard-art/.
  2. Pauli Bird. “Ringe.” Pauli Bird Jewelry, n.d., https://www.paulibird.com/ringe/.
  3. STL Art Supply. “Bauhaus Typography at 100.” STL Art Supply, https://shop.stlartsupply.com/products/bauhaus-typography-at-100.
  4. Oshkosh Designs. “Pembroke Parquet Flooring Grid.” Oshkosh Designs, 2014, https://oshkoshdesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Pembroke-Parquet-Flooring-Grid.jpg.
  5. Board Thing. “Classic Rings.” Board Thing, https://boardthing.eu/collections/classic-rings.

4 Comments. Leave new

  • The use of old skateboard decks is unique and very interesting. I love the colorful images you chose to represent your aesthetic, I hope the jewelry turns out well. You mentioned layering the decks together before turning them on the lathe, how does that process work? Is it just a bunch of glue and clamps or is there an easier way to bond them together?

    • Matt Bloomfield
      February 5, 2025 12:52 pm

      Hey Max, thanks for the comment. From what I understand it is going to be that simple, as long as the wood has all the glue/nastiness cleaned up and is sanded clean, the decks should stack nicely together based on their contours.

  • Keith Hemenway
    February 3, 2025 1:41 pm

    I appreciate the given descriptions of each of the aesthetics you have chosen, and I think the upcycled material of skateboard decks is very unique and practical. It seems that you plan to make multiple pieces based on each aesthetic? Is there one of them which is more important for you to finish?

    • Matt Bloomfield
      February 5, 2025 12:54 pm

      Hi Keith, I think the most important thing for me would be to get at least one solid/fully finished ring that is also clean and feels nice to wear. After that I think I’ll keep making as many as I can based on how much material is left-over.

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