Posted: December 18, 2007

MARK GONZALES
Interview & Photos: Schmitty

FIrst of all, congratulations on having your son William Dexter Jackson. How has having a son changed your life?
I don't think of change.

Why did you have the baby in New Zealand?
To be patriotic.

What is your favorite word?
Backwards.

It was a big year for you, with the baby and two videos. Can you talk about how you got the inspiration to make each video?
Inspiration is a concept. The only thing I can think of for inspiration is Michelangelo. In an aesthetic way, he’s all that comes to mind. In a physical way, I don't know… Skateboarding—I don't know if it's static or physical.

How was Gnar Gnar different from Gnaughty?
Just different names, I guess.

What turns you on?
The hype.

What turns you off?
Hypodermic needles.

Are you still determined to kickflip a bike?
Yes.

What’s it gonna take?
A few more people who don't think I can do it and think that I'm basically full of shit.


Mark takes a boardslide around the corner in 'the hood' during the filming of Gnar Gnar.

TOP THREES

Cars:
1. One that drives
2. One that kind of drives
3. One that's in the shop being serviced

Spots:
1. Manny rips the spot
2. Mo gets pissed
3. Jack hammers the spot

Music:
1. Of course, Morrissey
2. And before that Elvis
3. And after that Johnny Holiday

Video parts?
That's stupid

Movies?
I haven't got any

All-time skaters?
1. Jay Adams
2. Glen Frierdman
3. Jay Adams

What’s your favorite curse word?
Banana-flavored asshole.