For the 24th year in a row, art and surfing collide in a must-see event on the Ocean City Boardwalk. The Art of Surfing is a vibrant celebration of surf culture in South Jersey, brought to life through original art, live music and the craftsmanship of surfboard-making. This free, family-friendly event invites guests to experience surf culture in a whole new way, by shopping local artwork, meeting artists from across the country, enjoying live music and embracing the laid-back beach vibe that is South Jersey.
Kicking off Thursday, July 31, and running through Saturday, Art of Surfing will take place at the Ocean City Music Pier. The event opens tonight from 5-10 p.m., and continues Friday and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., allowing everyone plenty of time to explore all that it has to offer.
Wondering what to expect? As soon as you step inside the Music Pier, you’ll be transported into a surfer’s paradise. Twenty-four local artists and makers will be scattered throughout the space, each selling original, surf-inspired work. From beach-themed paintings and photography to handmade clothing, jewelry and more, the range of art is wide and all of it is rooted in the surf and shore lifestyle. You’ll also find live demonstrations of how surfboards are made, showcasing the skill and artistry that goes into shaping these boards by hand.
“That feeling that people get when they come here, that’s what we’re trying to highlight,” said Aaron ‘Bogy’ Bogushefsky, the event’s showrunner. “Surfing is a huge part of our beach culture here, but it may not be for everyone, so we’re trying to make it more accessible to everyone through this event.”
Bogy took over the operations of the Art of Surfing event four years ago. Since then, he’s placed a bigger focus on highlighting not only the surf community as a whole, but also the artists and makers within that world. His mission is to keep the event local, showcasing the creators who live and work in the area.
While the event draws crowds from near and far, many people have said they even plan their vacations around it. However, the heart of it is rooted in the local scene. Bogy emphasized that Art of Surfing is a platform to give exposure to our local artists, connect them with new audiences, and teach visitors about the deeper culture that exists along the Jersey Shore.
“We have every imaginable art style you can think of, from oil painting, illustrations, wood carving and recycled artwork to clothing, jewelry-making, bathing suits and everything in between,” Bogy said. “We were really trying to hit everything, and I think we have a great variety this year of artists.”
After 24 years, some events might lose steam, but Art of Surfing has only grown. What began in a small Ocean City art gallery has expanded to the Ocean City Music Pier, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Crowds pour in from the Boardwalk to explore the vibrant, creative scene inside, and, as Bogy hopes, leave with a new appreciation for surf culture, beach life and local art.
“We’re happy to be involved each year and continue to promote the surf culture,” Bogy said. “We think of it as almost an insight into the locals’ scene. Outside people may not really understand the culture here, but once they come in, they can kind of learn and grow more respect and appreciation for our area and what goes on here year-round.”
Adding to the weekend’s excitement, live music will fill the Music Pier all three days. Local bands will take the stage, bringing even more energy and local pride to the event.
Petty Cash kicks off the festivities tonight from 5 to 10 p.m. On Friday, L&J Band will open the day, with Te Vista closing the night. Saturday’s lineup includes The Asburys in the afternoon, and HeadHigh will wrap up the event with a final evening performance.
All performers, like the artists and vendors, are local creatives who give back to the community through their work, whether that’s through music, crafting or art.
“We’re trying to really promote the locals,” Bogy said. “Between the music, the makers, and the artists, I’m really trying to help support the local people that are creating things and making something exciting for us here.”
Bogy and the team who bring this event to life each year are driven by a love for the beach, the arts and the people who make this area special.
“My hope for the artists is that they have success in sharing their work with others and that they can support themselves further to continue their work,” Bogy said. “For all the people who will come in, I hope they gain a greater appreciation for the beach culture down here that they might not have been aware of before.”
Photos by Steffen Klenk
