The Alien Workshop "Believe" skateboard deck is one of the most iconic and enduring graphics in skateboarding history. Designed by artist Todd Bratrud, the "Believe" graphic has become synonymous with Alien Workshop's brand identity and has been reissued multiple times over the years. Below is a history of the "Believe" deck and its significance:

Origins of the "Believe" Graphic

Year Introduced: The original "Believe" deck was released in 1999.

Designer: Todd Bratrud, a renowned skateboard artist who has worked with Alien Workshop and other brands like Toy Machine and Numskull.

Concept: The graphic features a surreal, almost psychedelic design with a hand holding an eyeball, surrounded by swirling patterns and the word "BELIEVE" prominently displayed. The design reflects Alien Workshop's avant-garde and artistic approach to skateboard graphics.

Cultural Impact

The "Believe" deck quickly became a cultural icon in skateboarding, representing the creativity and rebellious spirit of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

It was featured in numerous skate videos, including Alien Workshop's Photosynthesis (2000), which helped cement its status as a legendary graphic.

The deck resonated with skaters not only for its striking design but also for its association with Alien Workshop's team of influential riders, such as Jason Dill, Anthony Van Engelen, and Rob Dyrdek.

Reissues and Variations

Over the years, the "Believe" deck has been reissued multiple times, often with slight variations to the original design. Some notable reissues include:

Early 2000s Reissues:

Alien Workshop brought back the "Believe" graphic periodically throughout the early 2000s, often with updated colorways or minor tweaks to the design.

2010 Reissue:

In 2010, Alien Workshop re-released the "Believe" deck as part of a series of reissues celebrating their 20th anniversary. This version stayed true to the original design, appealing to both nostalgic skaters and a new generation.

2014 Reissue:

The "Believe" deck was reissued again in 2014, this time with a slightly updated color palette and a focus on the brand's heritage.

2020 Reissue:

In 2020, Alien Workshop celebrated its 30th anniversary and re-released the "Believe" deck once more. This version was highly anticipated and sold out quickly, demonstrating the graphic's enduring popularity.

Legacy

The "Believe" deck is more than just a skateboard graphic; it represents a pivotal era in skateboarding history when Alien Workshop was at the forefront of the industry.

Todd Bratrud's design has become a timeless piece of skateboard art, often referenced in discussions about the most iconic skateboard graphics of all time.

The deck continues to inspire new generations of skaters and collectors, with original 1999 versions becoming highly sought-after collector's items.

Conclusion

The Alien Workshop "Believe" skateboard deck is a testament to the power of art and design in skateboarding culture. Its longevity and repeated reissues highlight its significance as a symbol of creativity, individuality, and the spirit of skateboarding. Whether you're a skater, collector, or fan of skateboard art, the "Believe" deck remains a legendary piece of history.