I watch my son, Michael, surf every single day. Surfers have an incredible connection to the sea, and every day I see him and his friends in total sync with the ocean.
Anyone with this ability has a soul that is deep and passionate. They are humble with the knowledge of knowing they are out there in elements that are far stronger than they are. In an instant, the ocean can change from calm and passive to wild and merciless. Each time they enter the water, surfers rely on their gift to gage the patterns and connect in a way no one else can.
They are intuitive, caring and sensitive people.
In this painting, a whale finds his way to the surface to connect with a surfer. His enormous size showcases the surfer’s vulnerability, yet with one gentle touch they are connected forever. Both share a mutual respect for one another and love of the ocean.
My son asked me to paint a poem he wrote on his surfboard:
‘If there is a heaven I know where it be. Under the folds of the hills that run through the sea.’
