Ray Barbee is a legendary skateboarder from San Jose, California. He began his professional career in the late 80s and quickly made a name for himself as a stylish and innovative skater. What’s unique about Ray is that in addition to his impressive skills on a board, he is also an accomplished musician who has released several albums and toured worldwide. Ray’s smooth and soulful style of skateboarding has inspired countless skaters over the years and his influence can still be seen in the sport today. Fun fact, Ray is also credited with inventing the “impossible” trick, which is now a staple in street skateboarding.

Art by Ray Barbee

**Ray Barbee**

**History:**
Ray Barbee is a seminal figure in skateboarding, widely recognized as a professional skateboarder, photographer, and artist. He was born on March 24, 1971, in San Jose, California. Barbee rose to prominence in the early 1990s, gaining a reputation for his smooth style and innovative tricks. He was a key member of the Santa Monica Airlines skateboard team, where he showcased his unique approach to street and vert skating.

**Notable Achievements:**
– Barbee made significant contributions to influential skate videos, notably *”The Ritual,”* which helped shape the aesthetic and direction of street skating during the early ’90s.
– He was featured in *”Plan B’s Questionable”* video, which is considered a landmark in the skate video genre.
– Throughout his career, Barbee has been known for his fluid style and technical prowess, influencing a generation of skaters.
– In 2017, he was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, recognizing his long-lasting impact on the sport and culture.

**Contributions to Skateboarding:**
– Beyond his prowess on the board, Ray Barbee is celebrated for his artistic contributions. He has a passion for photography, notably focusing on skateboarding culture, which he has shared through various exhibitions and published works.
– Barbee’s work has helped bridge skateboarding with visual arts, and he has collaborated with several brands and artists to create skateboard decks featuring his unique illustrations.
– He has contributed to skateboarding culture through teaching and mentorship, inspiring younger generations of skaters.

**Relevant Connections:**
– Barbee has been associated with several notable skateboard brands throughout his career, including Santa Monica Airlines, Element Skateboards, and Birdhouse Skateboards.
– He has collaborated with artists and musicians, further blending skate culture with artistic expressions; notably, he has worked with companies like Vans for limited-edition footwear.
– Barbee is also featured in various skate documentaries and publications, enhancing his influence within the broader skateboarding community.

Ray Barbee’s legacy continues to inspire both riders and artists in skate culture, making him a pivotal figure in the evolution of skateboarding as both a sport and an artistic expression.