The art of big wave surfing

And while big waves might not break close to local shores, the area still has a deep connection with surfing culture.

The two will combine again with Frontier Surfing, a new exhibition at the Fremantle Arts Centre.

The exhibition centres on the relationships between the rider, the board and the wave, capturing some of the biggest waves off WA’s coast and the people who chase them.

Fremantle Arts Centre curator Ric Spencer said the exhibition came about in a typically Fremantle fashion. “Local surfer Damon Hurst was hosting music and storytelling sessions on surfing at the North Fremantle bowls club,” he said.

“Damon’s been surfing for more than 40 years and is a passionate believer in the intense relationship between the wave, the board and the rider that surfing is defined by.

“We decided to explore this powerful connection and enduring pursuit through an exhibition.”

Tracking WA’s surfing history, the exhibition includes pictures from surf photographers John Witzig, Russell Ord and Jamie Scott alongside a number of classic, big wave surfboards and interviews with the surfers who ride them. “Big wave surfing holds a place close to WA’s heart,” Spencer said.

“Seeing classic big wave shots, pivotal boards and hearing first-hand from big wave surfers will bring that intimate connection between the surfer and the wave alive.

“It’s the sheer presence of the waves amidst the agility, braveness and skill of the riders that lends a captivating sense of mortality.

“This almost-spiritual moment, captured through photography, is awe-inspiring to witness.”

Frontier Surfing is at the Fremantle Arts Centre until May 22.