Skateboards are a unique way to express individuality and personal style, and Douglas Miles— one of New Times’ 100 Creatives—has used them for his canvas.
Miles is the owner of Apache Skateboards and a highly-regarded muralist. His art also reflects the deep connection he feels to his heritage.
"Only the best artists can actually combine politics and art seamlessly," Miles said. "Because before you realize it, you're bobbing your head along to the music and you're learning something in the process."
When Miles' son started to skateboard, just like he did when he was younger, Miles bought him a skateboard and painted it, "the rest is Apache history," he said.
His identity as an Arizonan, a San Carlos Apache and Akimel O'odham is infused in his work. So much so that he doesn't usually think about it.
"But I think a lot of it is about Apache history and a Native American ethos in it," Miles said.
