Surf Craft: A History of Surfboard Design and Culture, Now on Exhibit in San Diego
by Owen James Burke
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Standing alone, these boards are often striking examples of functional design. Together, they tell a compelling story about the evolution of an important American art form.
In Surf Craft: Design and Culture of Board Riding, Surf historian Richard Kenvin maps out the family tree of surfboard designs and shapers from the Hawaiian Alaia to the modern tri-fin thruster and everything in between.
Beyond the function of surfing, Kenvin looks at the history of the craft, from single planks of wood to the modern fiberglass and petrochemical billboards that emphasize commercialism over culture.
From now through January 11, 2015, Kenvin’s exhibition of the same title is on display at the Mingei International Museum in San Diego, California.
Read more at the Mingei International Museum’s website — OB
