THE ZOO YORK INSTITUTE

About me:

As graf writers were bombing the local streets and giving the landscape a new identity, there emerged a need for a stronger organization. This led Rodney Smith to found Shut Skateboards with Bruno Musso in 1986. Shut was the first company to define the New York scene with a team of skateboarders and diverse product line. It was Rodney’s vision to keep the spirit of skateboarding and graffiti alive and well on the East Coast, and that's exactly what he did.

Around the end of 1991, Shut Skateboards dissolved and Rodney began to spread the word about his next venture: Zoo York. Rodney partnered with designer Eli Gessner and was soon joined by Adam Schatz to help finance and oversee Zoo York’s growing business needs. In 1993 the three partners launched Zoo York and set history in motion.

Over the years Zoo York has grown and evolved, and today it is embraced by Zoo fans around the world. The company is backed by the Zoo Crew which includes original NYC graffiti artists, designers, musicians, new and old school skateboarders, and some of the biggest names in the BMX and surf communities. Zoo York is a family of individuals who share the common goal of leading a fulfilling life based on what they love to do.

Now sixteen years deep in spreading the word, Zoo continues to explore the streets of NYC, through the Holland Tunnel and around the world. It’s an experience and way of life. An evolving brand made by Zoo Yorkers for Zoo Yorkers. This is THE ZOO YORK INSTITUTE! Got it? Enjoy.