NATAS
KAUPAS
ome kids take the whole thing wrong. They're
the magazine and try to do this trick or that trick.
Portraits by Tony Friedkin. Action Photos by Bryce Kanights.
Natas Kaupas was born in 1969 and by the age
of three was belly-skating down his driveway in
Santa Monica, CA. His surfing and skating styles
reflect the influences of the infamous S.M. crew
and set him apart as an innovator both in the
water and on the pavement. Talking to Natas you
get the feeling that he can excel at just about
anthing he chooses. He keeps a busy schedule
of skating, school and business commitments
and enjoys a healthy attitude and lifestyle. As
Natas is quick to point out, you'll never get to
know him by reading magazines. But in this
interview, taken from several sit-down sessions
with friends and cohorts, you'll get an idea of
what makes this happy-go-lucky skater tick.
Who is Natas Kaupas and where does he come from?
He's just a guy who goes skating a lot and happened to get good.
at it. He's not a superstar. He doesn't fit in with the superstar image.
He thinks it's weird to sign autographs.
Why is it weird to sign autographs?
A lot of kids ask me for my autograph and every once in awhile
ask if they know who I am, and they say, "No." They don't even know
my name. Why would they want my autograph? If somebody knows
my name, knows what I'm doing and really wants my autograph I
don't feel bad giving it to them. Sometimes kids stop me and ask
me questions when I'm skating. I don't really want to talk to them,
because I'm just there to skate.
Do you put yourself on a level above them?
No, I'm just a skater like them. I'm just there to have fun. If