I focus on the fact that the snowboarding subculture has evolved throughout the last 40 years from rejection to acceptance. Using art movements such as Dada, Avant-Garde and Punk as examples, my thesis will examine the history of snowboarding and explain how wider cultural forces helped to shape the sport into this era, where it is mainstream while still holding onto its individualistic progression. Without the dedication, drive and passion, snowboarding would not have become what it is today.

Olio Snowboards is a series of four snowboards I designed, all based around four different individual snowboarders.My thesis project will examine the fact that a snowboard deck is a blank canvas ready to absorb the creativity and energy expressed throughout one’s lifestyle and experiences.