Two emerging young women artists have received the people’s choice award for their unique skateboard designs.

ARTDECKO is an exhibition of skateboard art by local young people on the Northern Beaches aged 12-24 years.

Aleta Wassell, 19-year-old Cromer resident, received the people’s choice award in the over 18’s category for her artwork Burumerring Yanung (Wedge-Tailed Eagle Looking/Watching – pronounced boo-roo-meh-ring  yah-noo-ng).

“As a proud Darkinjung woman, sharing my Aboriginal culture with my wider community is something I am very passionate about and I feel very lucky to be able to share my story through this competition,” Ms Wassell said.

“This work is about the Burumerring that guides me through life and supports me through my decisions and lessons.

“The spirit of a bird that soars so free will always be an inspiration of mine that sits close to my heart. It is a constant reminder to take a second away from my busy day to check in on my loved ones, to help a stranger out, show some kindness and most of all do something small for myself.

“I hope to give away a few of the skate decks to young Aboriginal kids learning to skate.”

Under 18’s people choice winner, 17-year-old Melissa Lamarque from Killarney Heights said her design, My lockdown buddy, was inspired by the companionship of her dog during the Sydney lockdown.

“This design is inspired by the Sydney lockdown and the relief that my dog provided when we went on long walks together within the Northern Beaches,” Ms Lamarque said.

“Her undivided attention and cuddles really helped me power through these difficult times. We kept each other sane and fit while looking out for each other’s mental health.”

Both young artists will receive five customised skateboard decks with their prints on them, courtesy of Skater HQ.

This year 346 young people signed up for ARTDECKO and 2,368 votes tallied for the people’s choice awards.

Runner’s-up in the over 18’s category included Jordan Lee, Dane Bousfield and Lucia Talbert. In the under 18s’ category runners-up were: Finlay Powell, Aarohi Bansal and Monique Wassell.

You can view all the designs in this year’s ARTDECKO competition in our online exhibition