John Severson’s: Surf Book Signing
Sept 24 Wednesday 6-8pm
8675 Washington Blvd
Culver City, CA 90332
Photos by Dan Levy
Press Release:
John Severson revolutionized pop culture’s vision of surfing and surf culture through his prolific artistic output that transverses decades and disciplines. He began his career as a painter, selling his canvases at Long Beach State College. These first works consisted of oil paintings, photographs, drawings and prints relating to Hawaiian and California surf culture. In 1958, Severson expanded his repertoire and created a series of popular documentary films, such as Surf Safari, Surf Fever, Big Wednesday, and Pacific Vibrations. These were among the first surf movies, and his self-designed posters associated with them – hugely popular when issued in the 1950s and 60s – remain collectors’ favorites today. Severson’s graphic skills translated easily to Surfer magazine, which he founded in 1960. The magazine was the first to celebrate and revolutionize the art and sport of surfing; establishing it as a powerful pop culture phenomenon. The first issue was a thirty-six page collection of black-and-white photos, cartoon sketches, and short articles – every aspect of which was created by Severson himself. His photographs have since appeared in Life, Sports Illustrated, Paris Match, and many other print venues.John Severson’s Surf explores his nearly sixty year odyssey through painting, photography, film, and publishing. Featuring an interview with the artist by Nathan Howe – artist and curator at Puka Puka gallery, Hawaii, a foreword by Gerry Lopez – surfer and co-founder of Lightning Bolt surfboards, and afterword by Drew Kampion – author and former editor of Surfer, this lovely, heavily-illustrated volume documents the birth of surf culture, and serves as a testament to our ocean.
