The 60's/Surfing USA
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The early morning fog lifts as the day clears to bright sunshine revealing a pristine ocean swell on the Californian coastline. Featured here are three of the most popular vehicles of the era, in fact more than half a century later, each one is recognised in its own right as a classic car of the 20th century.
The old reliable split window Kombi of the early ‘60s was a favourite for weekend surf safaris. It was a mobile home to many of us.
Like myself, the infamous Ford Woodie has been making its way to surf spots all over the world for more than half a century.
The 57 Chevy Convertible was the envy of many surfers in the ‘60s. Most of us spent so much time surfing that we didn’t earn enough money for such a classic wagon.

Garry draws on his surfing and working experiences in California to recreate the early days of American surfing. He spent time with Gordon and Smith in San Diego and Hawaii, with Ocean Pacific and it's founder Jim Jenks, and working with the great textile designer Walter Hoffman in California. And, of course, he surfed with many of America's great old time surfers.
In his paintings Garry recalls the surf craft, clothing, cars and icons of that era in minute accurate detail. He creates original paintings from his memory of personal experiences. Each scene is more than a painting, it also tells a story of that era.
Working mostly in gouache, Garry's vibrant style reflects the magic of the ocean and his love of riding the waves.

A3 (370x255mm)

AUD$60.00

A4 (263x180mm)

AUD$40.00

© Garry Birdsall