In May I’ve photographed events at Foundation Skatepark and Push Skate Shop in Asheville, North Carolina. These events were a memorial to Rorey Hipps, a local skateboarder who passed away on May 9th, 2026. Rorey was beloved to the community in Asheville.
"Yer Boi," a tribute to Rorey can be seen spray painted almost everywhere in the city if you know where to look for it.
Rorey Hipps Celebration of Life. Friday, May 15th 2026. Foundation Skatepark, Asheville North Carolina.
The event started as a rowdy skate session and party with hundreds attending.
Hail Mary worked set up shop under an ez up.
A tattoo artist sets up under a tent next to the bowl.
After a moment of silence Rorey's Parent's released butterflies in his honor. Friend's of Rorey created a mosaic and placed it on the back of the Pool.
Friday, June 19th. Push Skate Shop. Downtown Asheville, NC.
On the weekend of Go Skate Day, Push Skateshop hosted an art gallery show as a fundraiser for Foundation. The Show featured more than 30 artists sharing pieces of Rorey's life, personality and impact on the community.
Next door at Asheville Music Hall, Brianstorm Skateboards premiered a skate video called Reincarnation with a video tribute to Rorey.
Saturday, June 20th 2026. Foundation Skatepark Asheville, NC
Skate 4 Rorey Day. Fundraiser and best trick contest with live music by Graven Lore, Falling Bheind, Reeko, FiveCarePileup and DJ Kutzu.
At the end of the day a moment of silence was held. It was announced that Rorey's ashes would be incorporated into the newly built hip.
