Riding the Waves of History: Explore La Jolla Surf’s Celebration of Local Surf Culture and Art
Surfing is a way of life in San Diego, especially in La Jolla, where the ocean and its waves have become integral to the identity of the community. A new exhibition at the La Jolla Historical Society, La Jolla Surf: Culture, Art, Craft, offers a fascinating exploration of this rich history. Running from February 8 through May 25, this exhibit shines a light on the figures who helped shape La Jolla’s surfing community and celebrates the deep connection between the people and the ocean.
Curator John Durant’s Vision
Curated by John Durant, a seasoned filmmaker and passionate surfer, the exhibit features a short film that presents a unique snapshot of California’s surf culture spanning nearly 100 years. Durant emphasizes that this isn’t meant to be a comprehensive history of surfing but rather a focused look at the key individuals who contributed to the development of the local surfing scene. In his own words, “We covered the pre-baby boom and boomer eras, and then the generations that succeeded the boomers. We sketched a picture of California that went back about 100 years.”
The film features extensive interview footage with local surfers, many of whom share their personal stories and memories of surfing in La Jolla. Despite varied experiences, one common theme emerged in every conversation: the powerful spiritual connection surfers have to the water. Durant explains, “At least once in every interview, people talked about the very powerful spiritual component of just getting in the water. There is a psychological benefit, and medicinal benefit almost, of just going in the water, even if you didn’t catch a wave.”
Durant also highlights the subcultural nature of surfing, noting, “It’s a subculture, but it’s a super-interesting subculture that refuses to stay inside the boundaries.” This unique perspective is explored through the stories of individuals who have contributed to the surf scene, as well as the broader cultural impact that Hollywood surf films from the 1950s had on the sport’s popularity.
Surfboards, Photography, and Art
The La Jolla Surf exhibit is more than just a film—it’s a full sensory experience. Visitors can see surfboards that were “handmade in someone’s garage, handpainted, and ridden to death,” Durant adds. These boards, which reflect the dedication and craftsmanship of local shapers, are a testament to the hands-on, DIY spirit of the La Jolla surf community.
Iconic surf photography from legendary photographers like Roy Porello, Jeff Divine, and Ron Church is also on display. These stunning images capture the energy, beauty, and rawness of surfing in La Jolla, showcasing the surfers, the waves, and the unforgettable moments they’ve captured over the decades.
The exhibit also includes original artwork from John van Hamersveld, a renowned designer whose work has become synonymous with surfing culture. Van Hamersveld is famous for creating the poster for the legendary surf film The Endless Summer and the album covers for the Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street and the Beatles’ Magical Mystery Tour. For La Jolla Surf, Van Hamersveld has designed a limited-edition poster, with 100 prints available for sale, further cementing his role in surf culture’s visual identity.
A Celebration of La Jolla’s Surf Legacy
“La Jolla Surf” isn’t just a historical exhibit; it’s a tribute to how surfing has become a permanent part of the California experience—and particularly of La Jolla life. As La Jolla Historical Society Executive Director Lauren Lockhart notes, “Given the number of La Jollans who surf or feel a similar deep connection to the ocean, I know these stories will resonate with our viewers.”
In addition to the exhibit, the La Jolla Historical Society will host several surf-related events throughout the exhibit’s run. These include surf film screenings on the lawn, family activities centered on surfing, and tours of UC San Diego’s Craft Center and its shaping room. These interactive events offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves even further in the culture and craft of surfing.
“La Jolla Surf” isn’t just a historical exhibit; it’s a tribute to how surfing has become a permanent part of the California experience—and particularly of La Jolla life.”
La Jolla Historical Society Executive Director Lauren Lockhart
An Ongoing Legacy
The interview footage featured in the film will be archived in the La Jolla Historical Society’s collection, making it accessible to researchers and surf enthusiasts who wish to explore the stories behind La Jolla’s surf history in more depth.
The exhibition opened with a special reception on Friday, February 7 and is open to the public through May 25. The exhibition will be held at the Historical Society’s Wisteria Cottage (780 Prospect St.). Normal gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays, and admission is free.
This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in the cultural history of surfing in Southern California and the individuals who have helped shape this iconic sport. As Durant puts it, “Surfing is kind of a permanent part of the California existence and a permanent part of La Jolla life.”
For more details and to learn more about the exhibit, visit the La Jolla Historical Society website at lajollahistory.org/la-jolla-surf.
Whether you’re a surfer, an art lover, or someone fascinated by cultural history, La Jolla Surf: Culture, Art, Craft offers a deep dive into the surfing legacy that has shaped this coastal town—and continues to do so today. Don’t miss this chance to experience the soul of La Jolla surfing up close.
About
La Jolla Historical Society is a 60 year old nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating the history and culture of our region through a wide range of innovative exhibitions, public programs, and research. We are the stewards of an historic property and archival collection, and we present engaging community events that draw attendees from throughout San Diego County and beyond. Discover the LJHS story and ways to engage with their work.
