a year ago
42
22
Posted On: October 13th 2025, 10:30 pm
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My most ambitious build to date: the California Jesus Fish.
An invite went out in Spring to submit an entry for the 2025 @boardroomshow “Best in Show” board building competition. I was drawn to this year’s criteria: 1. fish surfboard design; 2. wood accents; 3. symbology (symbols).
I love incorporating wood into surfboards (I've made wood fins for several years) and I see the practice as a bridge to the golden-era builders I revere: Noll, Hobie, Hap, Velzy, Wardy, Bing, and others.
The Jesus fish is a universally recognizable symbol and offered a nice double entendre to the classic Steve Lis fish surfboard design. I incorporated Coastal Redwood and Torrey Pine (thank you @lumbercycle) for the inlaid fish, Christian wheel, IXOYE, and keel fins.
IMHO: I think I nailed the concept and the criteria. I wish the judges agreed, but my skill level is far below the other competitors'...for now. Besides, judging and art are 100% subjective. Most importantly, I did this to push myself, not to win a contest. I hope you like it.
Lastly, thank you to my family who supported me, cheered me on, and handled my anxiety and absenteeism like pros.
An invite went out in Spring to submit an entry for the 2025 @boardroomshow “Best in Show” board building competition. I was drawn to this year’s criteria: 1. fish surfboard design; 2. wood accents; 3. symbology (symbols).
I love incorporating wood into surfboards (I've made wood fins for several years) and I see the practice as a bridge to the golden-era builders I revere: Noll, Hobie, Hap, Velzy, Wardy, Bing, and others.
The Jesus fish is a universally recognizable symbol and offered a nice double entendre to the classic Steve Lis fish surfboard design. I incorporated Coastal Redwood and Torrey Pine (thank you @lumbercycle) for the inlaid fish, Christian wheel, IXOYE, and keel fins.
IMHO: I think I nailed the concept and the criteria. I wish the judges agreed, but my skill level is far below the other competitors'...for now. Besides, judging and art are 100% subjective. Most importantly, I did this to push myself, not to win a contest. I hope you like it.
Lastly, thank you to my family who supported me, cheered me on, and handled my anxiety and absenteeism like pros.
Comments (22)
a year agodebelmgren
Beautiful work D, love the design and special wood elements. I can tell you put your everything into this unique piece of art!
a year agohuskaweegsurfboards
A splendid job done on this board, and meeting the three criteria for this contest that most other entries did not! I'm with you on trying something new to challenge yourself, and not to win contests! Keep up the good work, and stay stoked
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