Stoked

So stoked you picked up “Venice to Malibu,” the most epic journey I’ve ever ridden on the West Coast. It’s like paddling out into the big blue on a gnarly day with clean double overhead sets rolling in—feels like the whole ocean’s right there, breathing life into ya, man. So pull up a towel, wax up your stick, and let’s get tubed through 43 miles of some of the raddest, baddest, and most storied surf spots in all of Cali.

You can’t even begin to fathom the history that’s been carved into these breaks. Both Venice and the ‘Bu share that electric buzz of California dreaming, but each has its own unique break, its own set of locals, its own tale of sea and sky. I’ve captured faces and places here, people from all walks of life. I ask ‘em what keeps them paddling back into the line-up, what makes ‘em tick. Be- cause, it’s not just about catching the wave; it’s about the whole ride, the vibe, the people you meet in the line-up, and the life stories that converge where the sea meets the land.

Venice Beach, with its grungy flair and wild mosaic of humanity, is like the Sea of Cortez of SoCal—the birthplace of some serious surf culture. You got the Dogtown boys, skaters turned surfers, who took to the sea like they were born with fins. They defined the gritty edge of California surfing, from ripping asphalt to shredding gnarly waves. Then you got the walls—oh man, the Venice Graffiti Walls. They’re like the cave paintings for the modern-day surfer. Artists tag their visions, their dreams, right next to the surf, where every wave that crashes seems to echo with the laughter, shouts, and hoots from generations of wave riders. And, bro, it’s not just the usual surf crowd. Here, you’ll find landlocked folks, drawn to the ocean’s pulse, hoping to sync their life’s rhythm to the tide. They come, they carve, and they become part of the living tapes- try that is Venice. It’s a place where surf culture isn’t just lived; it’s created anew every single day.

Born and raised in Southern California – bustling energy of Los Angeles – on January 6th, 1992, Nicolas Haro has developed a unique perspective on the world around him. Influenced by both the bustling energy of San Fernando and the tranquil landscapes of Oxnard, Nick’s connection to his surroundings is deeply rooted. It was in Oxnard where he found a sanctuary away from city life, nurturing a lifelong bond with the ocean through surfing and fishing.

With a diverse academic background, Nick eventually discovered his passion for studio art, specifically photography. This led him to explore and document the cultures of Los Angeles and Oxnard, using his lens to capture their essence.

His work goes beyond just photography; it serves as a bridge between grassroots stories and vibrant communities, showcasing the beauty and complexity of everyday life. His appreciation for the ocean extends beyond his art; it has taught him to appreciate simplicity and respect nature. Nick aspires to incorporate this simplicity into his work, reminding viewers of the significance of life’s small moments.

Nick’s dedication to photojournalism and documentary photography comes from a profound curiosity about street culture, urban lifestyles, and social issues within local communities. He sees his art as a reflection of his passions for activities like surfing, fishing, and kayaking, as well as being in harmony with nature.

Through his work, Nick aims to shine a light on human interactions within the surf community culture. He engages with individuals to share their personal stories, perspectives, and philosophies.

“Venice to Malibu” is the first book in a series, which will consist of three books exploring surf community culture while emphasizing the importance of human connections and nature’s impact on our lives. Nick’s approach involves spontaneous conversations with fascinating individuals, allowing him to present authentic narratives that resonate with a wide audience.