Note from the Judges…

Three judges, all lifetime surfers who’ve shaped their lives by the tides and the vibes of the ocean, gathered to judge the “Surf the Soul” art exhibit. The contest was a blind judging—only the artwork and titles, but no artist names in sight. Here’s what went down, wave by wave:

To all the artists, thanks for sharing your art and your stoke. Your creations paddled right into our hearts and reminded us why we chase waves and sunsets, again and again. Mahalo!

First Place:

“Kickstart My Heart” by Brandi Wilson

Whoa, this piece totally paddled out above the rest! All three judges felt like they could feel that electric drop, that split second before you commit—either you’re charging this wave and soaring, or you’re about to meet the swirling chaos of the washing machine. The energy, the movement, the raw stoke—it was all there. The brushwork was dynamic, and the colors just singed, pulling us right into the rush. Pure, salty adrenaline on canvas!

Second Place:

“Winter Surf, Mustang Island” by Jeffrey McDaniel

This one, the judges vibed on the same wavelength. You could totally imagine yourself tucked deep in the barrel of this chilly blue wave, watching the world blur as you glide from left to right. The lines and tones really made us feel the tube—so inviting that you just wanted to jump right in and get pitted. There was a hypnotic, rhythmic energy, and the composition pulled us along the break, chasing that next section.

Third Place:

“Surf Shack” by Susan Myers

Surfers know this feeling—a little shack, salt in the air, waiting for the next set to light up the horizon. The judges all agreed: this shack is not just shelter, it’s a sanctuary! The details were rad, textured with that driftwood warmth, and you could practically hear the boards rattling, eager to dash into the surf. It gave off real “home break” vibes—inviting, mellow, and brimming with anticipation.

Honorable Mention:

“Sunset Symphony” by Karen Rester

All three judges caught the peaceful afterglow in this piece. It’s that magic hour, when the day’s last waves are glowing gold, and you sit back, wetsuit dripping, soul fully stoked, watching the sun sink low. The color palette was unreal—warm, mellow, and reflective—each judge felt this was a truly unique vision, with a serenity that wraps you up like a toasty towel at the end of an epic session.