Raul Rodriguez

Marine Park I | Marine Park I documents a local skatepark within a larger park in the city of Fort Worth, TX. The park resides in a predominantly Latino community in the neighborhood of The Historic Northside. Unlike others that surround it, where more affluent communities can afford the qualities of a concrete park, Marine is a repurposed tennis court that has become a haven of ramps, boxes and rails for the local skaters. For as much energy as can exist at the park, there is an equal and reflective notion of what the park provides. It is a shelter.

Skateboarding is by all means inclusive. But it is important to note that for a long time the portrayal of skateboarders was often one dimensional with a primary focus on the suburban, light-skinned and economically well placed skater. With the exposure of more skaters of color, this once deemed “white boy sport” became an outlet for the lower income communities with a need to express themselves fully. I was one of those skaters.

The idea of this culture existing within the urban environment is nothing new. Its introduction has been around for decades. However, within this repurposed tennis court, it is encouraging to witness the free form and expressive lifestyle of skate culture reach a group of diverse kids making do with what they have and coming of age at Marine Skate Park. www.raulrodriguezphoto.com