The Surfboard Art Project

This project brings together traditional craftsmen who hand shape custom surfboards and the fine art photography of Tony Arruza.

The result is an exquisitely crafted, beautiful surfboard with a laminated signed Giclée print of an original Arruza photograph.

The finished pieces are in essence functional art where the surfboard could work equally well in the ocean or as a stunning display on a wall.

A master shaper will be collaborated with on each project. The purpose is to determine the style of the board, the image to inlay and what finishing touches such as pin lines, colored gelcoats and fins are to be used.

The process of surfboard inlays

For a photograph to be considered for this project it must have sharp focus and very high resolution, be composed so that the shape of the surfboard can be cut out of the image and, most importantly, have captivating content. Very few images meet all these criteria.

Each board will be signed, titled and numbered in a limited edition series of no more than ten per image.

The goal of the project is to mount an exhibit entitled 15 Boards by 15 Shapers. The boards will be prominently displayed on custom built floor stands. Viewers will be able to feel and see up close the craftsmanship and artistry of each board. Portraits of the shapers will further enhance the exhibit in the form of 16″x16″ black and white, framed prints.

For pricing and additional information please contact Tony Arruza directly.

Shapers, finished boards & board details

Pipeline, the original prototype — a 7'6 Firo fun board, Tony Arruza custom surfboard

“Pipeline,” the original prototype — a 7’6″ Firo fun board

Crystal Lip-- 7'4 Ricky Carroll semi-gun, Tony Arruza custom surfboard

“Crystal Lip”– 7’4″ Ricky Carroll semi-gun

Mullet Chase-- 6'0 Nomad fish, Tony Arruza custom surfboard

“Mullet Chase”– 6’0″ Nomad fish

Pink Hibiscus - 6'4 Chris Birch double-wing pin, Tony Arruza custom surfboard

“Pink Hibiscus” – 6’4” Chris Birch double-wing pin

Sunrise Lines – 7'6 One World balsa semi-gun, Tony Arruza custom surfboard

“Sunrise Lines” – 7’6” One World balsa semi-gun

Road to Discovery – 6' Matt Kechele diamond tail

“Road to Discovery” – 6′ Matt Kechele diamond tail

Down the Line – 6 6 B.A.T. single fin

“Down the Line” – 6’6” B.A.T. single fin