The Island Jive Chronicles

Vacation? No, what you need is a...

2011-08-29T22:15:00.000-04:00

Have you ever found yourself dreaming of your next surf trip? Thinking about warm waves, empty lineups and sunset drinks by the pool? If you're a surfer then the answer is, yes! We all do. And we all share a common experience when it comes to turning these dreams into reality. You hit your head against the desk in frustration as you click through endless vacation rental listings or google search results. Is that picture of the wave taken from the house, or did they walk to the beach and snap it? You stare at google maps trying to figure out if the hotel is on this beach or the one next to it? You think the condo is close to surf but you're not sure, so you read the reviews hoping to glean some surf information. Or maybe you find the perfect vacation accommodation, you show up and the beach pictures were taken with a zoom lens and you face a 10 minute walk each morning to check the surf.

What if there was a website that did all the hard work for you. What if you could search by surf break and then see the houses and hotels located closest to the break. What if you could see the distance from the bedroom to the waves? What if every choice listed on the website had been handpicked by surfers to make sure it was as close to the surf as you can get?

If you're still asking "what if" then you haven't found the new website Wavecation.com. Bridging the gap between a surf report website and a vacation rental site, Wavecation fills a void in the surf travel world. The layout is elegant and clean. No cluttering ads, no pop-ups asking you to create an account, just a simple and easy to use directory of the world's best surf accommodations.

Plenty of companies provide surf packages with all the bells and whistles, but for those who just want to plan a surf getaway themselves, Wavecation is the way to go. There are currently around 100 properties to choose from, all of them perfectly located for surf. Luxurious Mexican villas overlooking private breaks can be found here as well as $20/night huts tucked into the jungle on a remote break in Panama. Maybe you're taking a family vacation to Florida or a business trip to L.A.? You might as well stay as close to the surf as possible. Wavecation provides pricing info and contact information for each of the properties and has a link to their websites so contacting them and booking is a cinch.

Wavecation is new and growing quickly, so if your favorite spot isn't included yet, keep checking back, or better send an email requesting your favorite surf vacation spot be added. What about secret spots? Wavecation makes a point not to list secret breaks or location sensitive data, which is always good policy. But for the spots that aren't secret, its wonderful to be able to see a pinpointed map of the location. And if you own or manage a property located on a surf break this is definitely your best way to find surfers looking for a place to stay.

So whether you're planning out your next surf trip or just wanting to daydream about some of the world's most idyllic surf destinations Wavecation.com is the site for you. Take a moment to search through their growing property list, you'll be ready to quit your job and be a surf bum for life after you see some of the incredible photos. So now you know, there IS an easier way to plan a surf trip. Remember, next time you're looking for a surf vacation, start your search with Wavecation.com

Foto Friday

2011-06-17T14:27:00.000-04:00

It's Foto Friday again whoo hoo! Today's pic once again comes from third eye vision fish Jim Whitney with a nice glassy green capture! Enjoy-shakas and out :)

Ocean Love

2011-06-14T22:48:00.003-04:00

What is about the ocean that captivates so many of us? I myself can not even answer this one, simple question. For as long as I can remember I've been in love with the ocean and can never seem to find the words to express these deep rooted feelings. Maybe, just maybe it's an instinctual desire to return to the liquid source! In any case I find it only fitting to post the trailer to Jack McCoy's latest masterpiece A Deeper Shade of Blue in honor of International Surfing Day! So, to all of you Aqua Peeps out there please do what you can to help preserve the health and vitality of our planet's life giving Oceans. Peace & Shakas :)

Why I Love Rainbow Sandals

2011-05-31T10:50:00.002-04:00

Typically Al is the author of our blog posts, but he's a little bogged down and asked me to contribute. Since I am on the other end of the gender spectrum, my content will be quite different, but hopefully just as enjoyable!

I have been a Rainbow girl for many years, worn them right out from under my feet a few times and always loved the fact that the Rainbow Sandal Company was a small, more grassroots affair unlike a Nike or Reebok company. I know that they have outgrown their grassroots feel and can now be found in nearly any retail outlet including most higher end retailers and such, but I still think their sandals are the best of the best!

When the Rainbow phenomenon exploded, and they were totally main stream, I decided to test the sandal waters after my 4 year old Rainbows blew out the thong. I bought a pair of reefs last summer. They were nice, didn't feel as good on my feet when I put them on for the first time. I knew I needed to break them in. (I never felt the "break-in" period with my Rainbows - they always just went from feeling really nice to feeling like they weren't even there!)

So it's a year later - I still have my Reefs. They feel pretty good now. Problem is, I've had them not quite a year now and the thong is getting ready to go on my right shoe. Wow! A year? Really? Now I am a little rough on shoes, especially my sandals which I wear daily through most of the months of the year. Really, I only wear a different shoe if I am dressed for a night out or during those irritating cold months when I have to cover my feet for fear of frozen toes. (We have about 3 months of pretty cold weather here during the winter).

In closing, I know that Rainbows don't have the "soul" that they once did. But my soles sure do miss them, and when my Reef's finally give up the ghost (I'm certain it will be soon), I'll be getting another pair of soul-less, but soleful Rainbows by the best Sandal Makers On Earth! The Rainbow Sandal Company.

Statement: I have nothing against any sandal company and I receive nothing from Rainbow Sandals for my comments, except nice cozy feet for years (purchased by me, not free!)

http://www.rainbowsandals.com/

Any comments> I'd love to hear your personal thoughts or comments, photos, etc. You can also comment and share your sandal photos on our Facebook page here:

Island Jive on Facebook

Big Smiles from the Island Jive Family!

Much <3, Tara

Foto Friday

2011-05-20T11:24:00.000-04:00

Ok so it's friday and in honor of this day of the week which marks the beginning of the weekend for most of the office dwellers out there I dedicate todays foto in the name of fun. Longbirding! Big ups to Jim Whitney for this amazingly beautiful grab! Shakas :)

Doodling for Real with Drew

2011-05-15T00:14:00.003-04:00

The Paint Shop Episode 3 "Crusin' to Santa Cruz" Full Episode in HD from The Paint Shop on Vimeo.
It's really, really late and I've got so much unfinished work that needs to get done, so instead of doing the obvious I'm farting around with this blog. It must be a ADD thing, who knows. Anywho, I just wanted to do a quick post about my friend Drew's new TV show called " The Paint Shop with Drew Brophy ". I've watched some of the episodes already available on their Vimeo channel and I have to say that it's really entertaining! Not only that, you get an inside peek of what it's truly like to be the world's premier Surf Artist and what it takes to work your art for a living! I've known Drew for some time and I've gotta tell ya that he produces a whole lotta art on a regular basis, unlike me messing around with this blog instead of actually producing new works! Keep on keeping on my friend, and Maria...call me! Shakas and out :)

Pimpin' Fur-real

2011-05-09T23:42:00.002-04:00

As I was digging through a dusty old portfolio from my art school days I came across this rather peculiar illustration. Something about it got me thinking. At first glance as funny as it is and wrong on so many levels there is this underlying, not-so-obvious truth about it. For all of us that have a special skill, talent or propensity towards a particular field, we do it because we like it and earn a living for it. Or at least we should!
I love what I do and if I could do it for free I would. However, since we all have financial obligations no matter your perspective we do in fact utilize our craft for currency. Take me for instance, since most of my art is created in exchange for dollars does that make me an " Art Pimp "? Well in a way I guess it does and I'm cool with that! So the next time someone asks me what I do for a living I'll just say " why, I'm a pimp "! Now what did I do with that feather hat and purple faux-fur coat?

Black & White Walls

2011-05-05T22:49:00.001-04:00

New Graphic Griptapes!

2011-04-15T11:30:00.000-04:00

We are super-stoked to announce that we now have five way rad grip tape designs made available by the killer folks a Grippix! If you don't know about these guys, ya soon will.

Available for Licensing

2011-04-13T11:10:00.000-04:00

We have just released three new pieces for pattern repeat available for licensing on ladies swimwear. If you are interested in including our JPL collection into your spring/summer 2k12 line up just give us a shout.
sales@islandjive.com

All is well in the universe

2011-03-31T09:26:00.000-04:00

I really, really dig this capture that my good friend Meghan Whitney took of her hubby "Big Jim" doing the tuck & glide. Thanks for the stoke Meg!

Brand up for grabs!

2011-02-15T09:37:00.000-05:00

Grassroots surf-apparel brand Jive Peoples Limited has announced that they are making the brand available for purchase or licensing. If you are interested in making an offer and would like to see the brand style guide feel free to contact via e-mail. Big Smiles & Shakas-Al

al.mcwhite@islandjive.com

Jive Peoples Limited is selling off designs

2011-02-14T10:27:00.000-05:00

ATTENTION SURF SHOPS! Jive Peoples Limited is selling off their most radical tee designs! One time charge and you can have the design for your shop and yes we have package deals! Get 'em while the gettin' is good! Those interested in seeing the collection contact me via e-mail.

al.mcwhite@islandjive.com

Wavescapes

2011-01-13T12:14:00.000-05:00

2010-08-27T15:45:00.000-04:00

"Woo Hoo"

2010-08-23T17:22:00.000-04:00

2010-08-23T14:48:00.002-04:00

2010-08-19T14:07:00.001-04:00

"F Stop" sighting in Wrightsville Beach, NC!

Even "Potheads" dig our tees!

2010-08-19T13:54:00.005-04:00

A recent pothead with munchies sighting reveals that they too, dig the new Village Surf Shoppe "Pier Pressure" tee provided by the fine folks at Jive Peoples Limited.

2010-08-19T13:38:00.000-04:00

www.jivepeopleslimited.com

2010-08-19T13:34:00.003-04:00

http://shop.jivepeopleslimited.com/store/p/178-Ocean-Protector.aspx

Fluid Movement

2010-06-18T12:03:00.002-04:00

2010-06-18T11:29:00.004-04:00

2010-06-12T22:39:00.003-04:00

2010-06-07T11:24:00.002-04:00

2010-06-04T17:12:00.002-04:00

2010-06-04T17:08:00.003-04:00

O' What a Feelin'

2009-12-18T13:18:00.000-05:00

Seasons Peelings

2009-12-17T15:11:00.001-05:00

Saltines

2009-12-14T22:33:00.001-05:00

Two Amigos

Clean Shave

Sea Goodies

2009-12-01T11:14:00.001-05:00

2009-12-01T10:43:00.001-05:00

Morning captures

2009-11-06T10:30:00.000-05:00

Hey, it's always offshore and clean

2009-10-29T11:59:00.000-04:00

What do you get when you have a treasure trove of well-groomed, world class waves? A little central american country called Nicaragua that's what! To any traveling surfer on a budget who craves speeding through wide open, liquid caverns...well, this is your "x marks the spot" place on your personal treasure map.

A few years back Mike Dennison liked what he had found in Nicaragua so much that ultimately he decided to stay for good! Since then, Mike and his wife Isamar have set-up a few rental houses (Casitas) in Popoyo, for traveling surfers interested in riding the numerous, powerful surf breaks that line the area.

Whatever you may need to enjoy your adventure in Nicaland, Mike's got you covered. Visit his site Nicawaves and you will soon discover that not only doe's Nicawaves offer the best prices; but also a wealth of local knowledge to help you when choosing the right break to ride-depending on your skill level of course!

<< You are now under my hypnotic spell >>

With surf like this, what are you waiting for? Go right now to Nicawaves , and book your next "Surfventure" in the land of abundant waves!

All photos: Courtesy of Nicawaves/Mike Dennison

Remnants

2009-10-26T23:11:00.001-04:00

The Most Hi-Shred Wetsuit Ever

2009-10-24T11:32:00.001-04:00

The checkered panel Aleeda springsuit with it's hi-shred, fast looking appearance just screams "watch out, I'm dangerous "! The dork wearing it (your's truly), not so much. Fer sure, fer sure! Idea, send me some pics of the most R-A-D-T-A-S-T-I-C wetsuits you've ever owned, and I'll post 'em.

Best wetsuit ever

2009-10-22T21:59:00.005-04:00

Man oh' man. I guess ya gotta do what you do with whatcha got! Vintage ultra baggy two piece dive suit with snaps...super-mega-size-me fashionable, not so functional.

Painting with Woodstains

2009-10-22T15:55:00.005-04:00

Painting with colored woodstains on wood can be a wee bit challenging and a messy medium to work with. Overall I think the effect is pretty rad! Tip: If you decide to try this, I would strongly suggest using a little water on a dry brush to help spread the stain out some, that way it becomes much easier to achieve blends. I took a photo of the original painting (center green wave) and made color repeats using photoshop to see how other color stains would look. Hmm, maybe a burnt sienna would be good to try next! Go ahead, give it a go and have fun!

Pawleys Island Surf Club Announces...

2009-09-29T22:40:00.003-04:00

Saturday October 10, entry forms are located at Surf the Earth!

Roots Music Hawaiian Style

2009-08-19T12:01:00.002-04:00

Sunrise Bowler

2009-08-18T22:16:00.005-04:00

Village Surf Shoppe has always been a big supporter of my art and to help celebrate their 40th anniversary I have created a few new t-shirt designs to mark the occassion. Hopefully the printed tees should be available at the shop within the next week or so! If you're visiting the South Carolina coast, drop in and say hi to the guys at the Village. O' yeah and don't forget to pick up one these tees for yourself!

Noosa Glide

2009-08-13T23:45:00.004-04:00

A fun little right slider. :)

McDoodle Saltees

2009-08-13T23:16:00.004-04:00

I've been playing around with some new ideas for our t-shirts and so far this is what I've come up with. What do you think...likey, no likey? If you have a cool or funny idea you'd like to share, feel free to let me know. I would love to hear your thoughts! Big Smiles with Teeth!

Morning Juice with a Side Peel

2009-07-22T00:25:00.005-04:00

New just added! "Morning Juice" joins our men's organic cotton t-shirt line-up. We will also be adding it to our ladies and youth collection as well as a possible open edition print to follow.

40 years of passing the stoke

2009-07-19T12:52:00.013-04:00

Tucked under a grove of trees just off Atlantic Avenue in Garden City Beach, South Carolina sits a funky little cinder block building that just sort of has this magic to it! Founded in 1969 by the late Eric Eason (1951-2008) the Village Surf Shoppe has been at the core of east coast surfing since and continues to be the backbone of the local surfing community! As a little grom In the early 1980's I remember buying my first board (that wasn't a torn up, hand me down, piece of shit) from the Village. I had worked for weeks mowing lawns, cleaning up construction sites and a whole slew of odd jobs just to save up enough to buy a decent board. The day had finally arrived and I had a whopping One Hundred and Twenty Five soggy, crumpled dollars in my wax pocket as I proudly walked from my grandparents house the shop. I must have studied every single stick in the new board rack at least a dozen times before I realized that I just didn't have enough money. I guess I should have taken note to what the prices were before strolling in there with my chest all puffed out like I was somebody! Talking about being deflated! Eric noticing that I was all bummed suggested we take a look at the used rack simply saying "Man, maybe your magic ride is in here somewhere. Ya never know!" Well, I did find this sweet little twin fin that was only slightly used and in great condition. Problem was that is was $135.00! Eric just smiled and said "No problem, I'll take $100.00 and we'll call it even!" Many thanks Eric, I will never forget that.
Kelly Richards owner/shaper of Perfections Surfboards bought the shoppe form Eric in 1987 and since built one hell of a surf team that has developed quite a reputation over the years! The level of very talented surfers in the local line-up has risen dramatically over the years and I am confident in saying this, that it has everything to do with Kelly Richards and his never ending support! His two sons Cam and Cole Richards not to mention a whole laundry list of others that are prime examples of the talent that is coming out the eclectic little beach town of Garden City all thanks to the little surf shoppe simply called "The Village!" Big ups to the Village crew...C' ya in the water!

Homegrown Tees that are Smoove as Buttah

2009-07-16T12:22:00.007-04:00

Smoove as Buttah is an understatement! These 100% organic cotton printed tees, particularly the natural are some of the softest t-shirts I have ever put on my back. Granted the 100% bamboo fiber tee is softer, but it is very difficult to get a decent print to work and maintain a soft feel. After countless days and nights of trying out an array of organic and natural fibers I made the decision to go with the 100% organic cotton. The biggest factor in my decision was that the cotton tees printed so very well and maintained a remarkably soft feel after being printed!
After going over and testing a whole slew of organic t-shirt manufacturers Royal Apparel was the one I went with. Also we have decided to utilize a new transfer method as opposed to traditional screen printing for a couple of reasons. First, being that we wanted to have as little environmental impact as possible and with chemical emulsions used to coat screens for screen printing as well as chemical re-claim agents used to clean the screens we opted for a cleaner and faster solution. With the transfer method we could achieve the same look with better color matching and a softer print that utilizes eco friendly inks with no chemical compounds. The carbon footprint is also considerably smaller since you are using less equipment and materials. We are very, very pleased with the results!
We have hand picked a selection of art from our collection to offer for the first time on t-shirts and will be adding new designs often. We would love to know what you think, so let us know what you would like see in the future and we'll do our best to meet your needs! Big Smiles ;)
Check 'em out!

New Limited Edition Prints!

2009-07-07T01:34:00.008-04:00

We have finally released a series of new limited edition fine art prints. Each is signed & numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity. The really cool thing is that they are printed on eco-friendly archival paper made from sugar cane! No worries, you don't have to be a serious art collector to own one. We also have a series of open edition prints to fit just about any budget as well as a Summer Sale on all of our mini-prints!

Criticism can be very beneficial...if you are willing to listen!

2009-05-13T13:22:00.007-04:00

Criticism indeed can be very beneficial if you allow another point of view besides your own to be heard. As an artist or creative type I had always found it extremely difficult to have someone share a less than positive opinion on my work. I would often feel like, "Aw man, they just don't get it" until one day I finally realized that there is some value to not only listening, but also accepting a different perspective.
Let's just say I woke up when I told my ego to "shut the $*#@ up" and get out of the way!
As I was preparing some of my latest works for a licensing deal, a familiar voice behind me said "that's a cool design, but the colors really suck!" My wife and business partner Tara has never been one to hold back her opinion, and I do mean never!
My first reaction was to tell her to "go suck an egg" yet instead of being defensive I irritably asked "what do you mean?" She gently explained that with these new designs specifically targeted to a female demographic my color pallet was heavy and a bit too masculine to really attract the attention of most young female buyers. She had a good point, so I took her advice and made the necessary changes. Get this, the art in fact did actually look incredibly better and as a result I was very pleased! The art has since gone to market and a dramatic increase in sales has been the result of me listening, accepting and applying good advice. I will no longer ignore my wife's sage wisdom when it comes to the female buyer, and I have since decided to put aside my own ego and seriously listen to what others have to say. Often there are some really useful ideas in the constructive opinion of another if you are willing to listen for a change! Much love and big smiles to my beautiful wife! What would I do without you?

The Color of Life

2009-04-29T14:21:00.013-04:00

It is truly amazing how many colors there are in the spectrum, and to think it's all because of one simple ingredient, "light"! Depending on where you are, what time of day, cloud cover and a whole slew of other factors, capturing the magic of color on camera is as tricky as locating the horseshoe in a box of Lucky Charms! Just ask Photography duo Jim & Meghan Whitney of Sessions Surf Photography, their life revolves around capturing color in milliseconds and the triumphs and even at times the heartaches that accompany this profession. For instance, after a recent return flight home from Hawaii, Jim had all of his photo equipment stolen. Get this, it was taken by an American Airlines baggage worker! Read full story Over time, Jim got his gear returned and has been able to continue his pursuit of freeze framing moving objects in a sea of color. Just goes to show that chasing your life's dreams isn't always easy, but for the love of what you do always leads to the greatest of rewards...The Color of life!

MEXICO, SURF, LOVE

2009-04-24T12:33:00.003-04:00

Big Ups & Big Smiles to Ed Fladung of Quality Peoples and his wife Marcia on the arrival of their son Luca! A few years ago Ed and his wife traded in their stateside existence for a new chapter south of the border and has since been capturing some really amazing images! Ed's blog is definitely my favorite thus far, fantastic content for sure.
So check it out, you won't be dissapointed! O' yea, many thanks Ed for the Island Jive post! :)

Back to the sea where I belong

2009-04-02T11:28:00.008-04:00

If you are a connoisseur of bold colors and "Styletastic" brush work, then check out friend and fellow artist Gaston Locklear's collection of work at Eat Sleep Work Surf. I really dig his sense of style and I just know you will too!

Tools, Objects and Artifacts

2009-04-01T13:38:00.003-04:00

Siesta Serenade

2008-11-19T15:05:00.003-05:00

New watercolor "Fade Away"!

2008-11-18T11:09:00.002-05:00

I will be adding as many new paintings to the gallery as I can over the next couple of weeks. If you are interested in purchasing an original please feel free to contact the studio anytime! Big Smiles!

2008-10-31T14:19:00.002-04:00

Longboard Stain Design!

2008-10-23T14:09:00.004-04:00

Island Jive will be releasing this design as a longboard skin in the coming weeks...stay tuned! Sorry the original is sold!

Sea Swirl

2008-10-20T13:13:00.005-04:00

Home Brewed Sweet Tea...how sweet it is!

2008-10-09T12:03:00.007-04:00

My friends and talented surf photography duo Jim & Meghan Whitney have been telling me for months about this photo essay/article that they were coordinating for ESM(Eastern Surf Magazine) that is to cover "The Big Picture" of what the South Carolina surfing community is all about. Well now it's a reality and issue #132 is in all the shops! I am completely blown away at not just the photos(that's a given) but how well and honest the writing captures the spirit and salty soul of this strangely beautiful and often overlooked place that is my native home...South Carolina! I almost shed a tear! Just about everybody I know/done art for or has surfed with at one time or another is mentioned. Funny thing is that there are so many more individuals and characters who are crucial to the local surfing community that they all couldn't fit into a seventeen page spread! Now that's what I call a large and diverse tribe! What a great read. Who's up for writing a book on the subject?
Jim & Meghan...great job! Matt Pruett and Nick McGregor...great coverage and I'm apologize that I didn't get to meet you when you were in town. Jim and Meghan know how to throw a real backyard BBQ, right? KR if you look close at your photo I think you have a foam booger on your forehead...Just kidding! Robert how did you and your girlfriend like the Whitney's bathroom? Stay Gnarly and Big Smiles!

New! Surfboard skins-Ride On!

2008-10-03T11:15:00.005-04:00

These skins are not only really cool, they're also affordable,durable and easy to apply! Are you bored of your old board? Well, here's your solution...check em' out!

Leftovers

2008-09-22T14:14:00.002-04:00

la isla del pez muerto

2008-09-17T10:53:00.002-04:00

Happy As Can Be

2008-09-16T16:28:00.004-04:00

The 2008 Happy Hendriks Memorial Surfoff will be held at the Ellerbe House off of the North Causeway. It is scheduled to begin at 8:30 am, Saturday , October 4th. Members entry fee will be $15.00 for the first event, which includes a Memorial T-Shirt and $5.00 for an additional event. If you do not participate in the contest and want to eat lunch, the cost will be $5.00 for a wristband. Wristbands will be available at the buffet tent.
There will also be a raffle for a custom longboard again this year. Entry forms and raffle tickets are available at Surf the Earth. THERE WILL BE NO LAST MINUTE ENTRIES IN THE SURFOFF!
For more information call 843-235-3500

Mom and Pops

2008-09-09T12:49:00.006-04:00

Day after day I pass by a whole slew of Mom and Pop motels, lodges and motor courts that are leftovers from a bygone era. Seemingly enough, each one is unique in theme and in architectural design. In their quiet stance to survive among the ever increasing mega towers of today, Mom and Pop motels are disappearing faster than you can say "Aw shucks, that was a cool little place!" Americans today are more obsessed with big name, franchised mega hotels with amenities galore. Hotels with on-site Water parks, Bar & Restaurants, Exercise facilities, Day spas and Starbucks of course! All that is fine and dandy if you want to spend the majority of your holiday in a glass tower. I guess we americans as a whole just simply want more bang for our buck as our fast paced, whirlwind lifestyles shorten our attention spans. Maybe, after all there's "no harm in charm!" Great, now I'm starting to sound like some nostalgic, old fart! Anyway, those little funky motels are pretty cool to look at...I dunno maybe they have roaches. For now, Big Smiles!

Thank You Hanna

2008-09-08T10:16:00.003-04:00

Tropical storm Hanna made landfall late friday evening just north of Myrtle Beach, somewhere around Ocean Isle, NC. Not much of an event overall. Did have a few strong gusts now and then with heavy downpours, nothing more than that though. However, saturday morning surfers all along the North and South Carolina coastline awoke to find that Hanna had left a parting gift. Clean, fun, chest high waves! Everybody including their brother, sister, grandpa, grandma, aunt & uncles...you name it were on it! Every surf spot from Folly Beach, SC to the Outer Banks, NC was packed to the gills! Now, if only we were to see more action this week. One can only hope! Big Smiles!

TS Hanna on the way

2008-09-05T17:24:00.006-04:00

Outer rain bands and darkening skies begin to appear today as tropical storm Hanna closes in on the SC coast. The surf is running around 6 to 7ft and building with a pretty heavy longshore current. The Surf is expected to increase to around 15ft as the storm center nears. A lot of boat owners were out this morning around the marina making sure that their property was secure or pulling their boats out all together. Hanna is expected to make landfall sometime later this evening. I'll post more as time permits. Big Smiles!

Yee Haw it's ridin' time again

2008-09-04T16:54:00.005-04:00

The Atlantic is finally churning up some decent surf. About time! There's been some really fun nuggets pushing through over the past few days, and it looks as though more is coming thanks to Hurricane Ike! The weather has been absolutely incredible.Clear blue skies,temps in the Upper 80's and low humidity for a change. Even the ocean has been pretty clear. I Had a nice long surf session today, and I hope for a repeat tomorrow...depending on how fast things go south as Hanna pushes through sometime tomorrow. I forgot to bring the camera again, so no pics! Happy Surfing!

Messy Fay Day

2008-08-21T11:18:00.005-04:00

I've been out of the studio for a while on a much needed break. I was in Central Florida all last week when I first started hearing the reports on Tropical Storm Fay. At the time the storm was just off Puerto Rico and not sending much swell toward Florida yet. Every now and then I would check The Weather Channel for updates and projections in hopes that I might get a little action while there. Didn't happen...instead I took the family to the Theme Parks in Orlando and had a blast! On returning home I was hoping there was enough time to catch some of that elusive fetch swell coming up from the south before the heavy winds got on it. There was a clean little swell monday morning but not too much in quality after that! As of today the winds are up around 15 to 20knts with gusts around 35knts from the ENE. Pretty messy out there with a strong longshore current, surf is running around head high to an occasional overhead set. Very easy to get sand blasted today! At this current time Fay sits stationary just south of Daytona Beach...where she gonna go nobody knows for sure! Projections have her tracking west across the Florida Panhandle and maybe into the Gulf. We'll see!

How not to paint a surfboard Demo

2008-08-04T16:48:00.010-04:00

My friends Drew & Maria Brophy along with son Dylan have called Myrtle Beach their base camp this summer and have been doing
a series of tours from North Carolina to Florida over the past six weeks. Friday Drew showed up at Xtreme Surf & Skateboard Co. to paint a board and give some love to his hometown people. I decided to show up (late as usual) with the idea that I would be the heckler in the back row! Instead , as I soon realized Drew had decided he would put me on the spot by enlisting me to help paint a board. Let's just say that I made a pretty big mess with the paint markers and Drew told me that I was "fired"! He was only kidding of course (I think), and overall the board did turn out quite nice! Check out Drew's new video on the proper way to paint a surfboard, I give it two thumbs up!!!

The Art of Sliding

2008-07-31T15:37:00.006-04:00

I really don't care what you say, to me surfing is truly a form of self expression not a sport. I know that there are plenty of people who would argue the point saying otherwise, and that's fine! I will always keep it in the realm of art just for the simple reason of pure creative joy with no rules of engagement or stress! Just being in the ocean, gliding along liquid walls with not a care in the world as opposed to "aw shit, seconds left in my heat and I need a scoring wave to advance!" As my good friend JB Smoak(photo above) slides one home on a vintage 9' Dick Brewer I feel confident in saying that "the art of the glide" is alive and well! O'yea, I took this photo with another one of those shitty little disposable underwater cameras!

The Art of Duck Diving

2008-07-31T14:28:00.008-04:00

Enough can't be said about "Duck Diving", to me it's an art form in itself! Think about it, paddling out for a morning session hair still dry and the first set approaches ready to give you a little wake up kiss. That feeling of submerging your board and pushing through, eyes open to have a little looksie underneath as you rocket up and out the back. Fan-friggintastic! I felt the need to take these photos with a shitty little underwater disposable camera to best illustrate what your eyes see(still a little foggy) after being awake for a short period of time. The only thing I can imagine that would ruin my first dive down of the day would be a large shark cruising through the lip. Believe me, I've had that happen more than I care to remember! Idea! Since it's Shark Week...tell me some of your "Sharkmare" stories while duck diving. Big Smiles!

From The Sketchbook

2008-07-25T16:15:00.003-04:00

Spindrift Fishystick

2008-07-16T09:07:00.006-04:00

From The Sketchbook

2008-07-15T15:31:00.003-04:00

From The Sketchbook

2008-07-08T14:16:00.003-04:00

One Hot Day and a Cold Beer

2008-07-02T15:58:00.008-04:00

A typical hot summer day requires two things, a cool down surf session and a ice cold beer! Ok, the ocean is flat right now so I'll have two beers instead. Now all I need is some fresh Mango Dorado on the grill and some chill reggae! Wait, I'm supposed to be working...Oh' well Big Smiles for now!

Bliss is a Tube View

2008-07-02T12:27:00.006-04:00

Ask any surfer the world over where their favorite place is and you would hear a resounding, "in the tube!" Ah yes, that special place where time stands still and a feeling of euphoric electricity passes through ones body. Pulling out of the liquid cavern with a dumb looking post-coital like smile can only be described as bliss! Tahiti, Fiji, Indonesia, and Hawaii are just a few places where some of the most gorgeous tubes can be ridden. With it being flat here at home, those locations are looking mighty sexy right now. Liquid Dreams and Bliss is a Tube View!

From The Sketchbook

2008-06-26T13:49:00.002-04:00

Summer Solstice Smiles

2008-06-20T11:25:00.006-04:00

Today is the longest day of the year with the arrival of the Summer Solstice so get outside and play in the rays! Yeah I know, don't forget to cake on the sunscreen. Big Smiles and Happy Playing!

From the Sketchbook

2008-06-12T10:24:00.001-04:00

International Licensing Show in NYC

2008-06-05T15:00:00.004-04:00

The International Licensing Show runs from June 10 thru the 12 at the Javits Center in Midtown. If you're in the area and plan on attending stop by the Son of the Sea booth(#1572) and check out some of my latest work. My rep Maria Brophy will gladly answer any questions you may have. Also her husband Drew of hand painted surfboard fame will be there doing some of his paint pen kung-fu. I on the other hand will not be able to make it this year. For now, Big Smiles!

Painting Donated to Benefit Surfrider

2008-05-30T13:58:00.002-04:00

The 3rd Annual Makai Luau is coming soon to Atalaya Castle in Huntington Beach State Park, Saturday, May 31 from 6pm-10pm, rain or shine! A limited number of tickets are still available, but they are going fast, so pick yours up today!

The annual event benefits the Grand Strand Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, to support environmental and community projects.

The Makai Luau is arguably the best luau this side of the Pacific! This year's luau will feature authentic Hawaiian cuisine from T-Bone Terry, beer from New South Brewery, wine from Southern Wine and Spirits, Bruxanne & Curt's "Surfer's Punch", live Hawaiian music from Da Howlies, and incredible Poynesian entertainment featuring the extravagant Hula and Polynesian fire show from Chief Kamu.

Also featured, a silent auction of surf and ocean-related art work from Gaston Locklear, Kimberly Dawn, Tommy Davis, Al McWhite, Blake Brown, Charles Singleton, Jessica Walters, Meghan Norman, an original pimped-out bicycle from artist Andru Wilson, as well as a beautiful Perfection longboard from Village Surf Shop. And as our Luau tradition demands, one lucky guest will walk away with the Makai Luau door prize: a beautiful 9'2 STE Longboard, with a hollow wood grain top and handpainted by artist Kimberly Dawn, courtesy of Surf The Earth Surf Shop!

Tickets are ONLY $50 per person! We have a limited number of tickets, so get them early. When they're gone, they're gone! Tickets are available from your Surfrider officers (you know who they are), or you can get them at area surf shops, including Surf City (MB and NMB), Village Surf Shop (GC), Surf The Earth (PI), Island Inspired Surf Shop (Hwy. 544), Extreme Surf Shop (Market Common) and Eternal Wave Surf Shop (Surfside).

Aloha!

A big thanks to our 2008 Sponsors: New South Brewery, Southern Wine and Spirits, Crown Reef Resorts, CK Photography, Surf The Earth, Global Awareness Project, Chief Kamu's Polynesian Show, T-Bone Terry, Village Surf Shop, the CCU Rugby Club, Christian Academy Boys Basketball team, and our many generous volunteers.

South Carolina Surfrider Plate now a reality!

2008-05-29T17:01:00.002-04:00

Finally after a year of red tape and constant revisions the South Carolina Surfrider license Plate is now available! A percentage of sales goes to benefit both the Grand Strand and Charleston chapters of the Surfrider Foundation. Many thanks to all who were involved in the process of making this happen. Tank, thanks for your patience buddy! If you are a resident of South Carolina please go out today and get your tag. Let's keep the Coast Clean!

Testing woodstains

2008-01-31T16:06:00.000-05:00

I've had this idea to apply my art to wood surfboards and skateboards using waterbased stains for some time now. So far so good although I haven't quite figured out a reliable way to make a stencil that will last the abuse of mass production. Hopefully this is only a temporary set back. Also I'm working on some concepts having my work etched into skatedecks finished off with stain fills. The testing continues...more to follow!

Give an old board some love

2008-01-30T16:22:00.001-05:00

If you have any old boards laying around collecting dust try giving them a new custom paint job! Makes for good practice when you're fine tuning your technique or working with new materials. After all the last thing you want to do is mess up someone's shiny, new custom stick! Take it from me...I've crapped up a few in my time.

What's in the bag?

2008-01-29T14:42:00.000-05:00

Back in june fellow surfer/artist Drew Brophy and I were exhibiting our latest work at the Licensing show in NYC. On closing day after tearing down the booth we stuffed the surfboards back into the board bag for the return trip home. As you can imagine the number of people franticly trying to hail a cab from the Javits center. What we needed was a minivan to make room for the boards. Hell we decided to make the seven block hike back to the hotel with the board bag on wheels in tow. One would assume that New Yorkers have seen just about everything. Well apparently not! I can't even begin to tell you how many people who were inclined to ask "What's in the Bag, Who's in the bag, how many bodies can you fit in there, You going to dump a body in the East River? Even interupted a photo shoot because the models were so distracted as to what could possibly be in that bag. It got so rediculous I couldn't help but say to a guy "there's room for one more pal!"