#California Locos #Surf Museum #OMA

California Locos Exhibition: Bridging Art, Subculture, and SoCal Rebellion

This fall, the California Surf Museum (CSM) alongside the Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) is hosting a new exhibition showcasing the California Locos, a group that has significantly impacted Southern California's cultural landscape. From their unique blend of street art to fine art, this collective embodies the free-spirited essence of the region, channeling rebellious energy into creative expression. They are not merely artists; they are cultural torchbearers who have transformed the narrative of SoCal's artistic identity for over a decade.

Founded in 2011 by cultural figure Dave Tourjé, the California Locos comprises a powerful lineup of multi-talented artists including Chaz Bojórquez, John Van Hamersveld, Norton Wisdom, and Gary Wong. Their collective work spans various mediums, from fine art to graffiti, surf and skate aesthetics, all while embodying the vibrant spirit of Southern California. Tourjé reflects upon their journey, noting how art influenced by the original surf culture of the late ‘50s has grown to gain recognition within the prestigious walls of galleries and museums.

A Historical Context

Historically, the California surf scene has always existed as a counterculture, rooted deeply in rebellion. Tourjé highlights that places like the Chouinard Art Institute, attended by several members, served as fertile ground for radical creativity, producing art that boldly challenged the norms. Such works, which were once marginalized, are now celebrated worldwide, playing vital roles in global branding and even shaping designs for the Olympics.

The narrative continues through the publication of California Locos Renaissance and Rebellion, a book that delves into the intricate relationship between fine art and the dynamic street culture of Los Angeles. This pivotal work reinforces the Locos’ place in the cultural lexicon while further validating their impact through global distribution and inclusion in significant art installations.

The CSM and OMA's joint exhibition, titled Surf Art Exploring California's Coastal Culture, is designed as an exploration of how this artistic movement, deeply rooted in surf, skate, and street cultures, continues to define Southern California’s creative identity. Visitors can expect to encounter an array of pieces that exemplify the thrilling and chaotic beauty of SoCal culture.

Tourjé, who grew up in Northeast LA during the explosive surf, skate, and punk movements, merges his Mexican heritage with his artistic training. This multicultural background enables the Locos to bring together various influences, crafting compositions that pulse with the lifeblood of Southern California.

Art, Equity, and Authenticity

“We’ve transitioned from the urban landscapes of drainage ditches to esteemed galleries. Each step isn’t just progress; it’s a part of our history,” Tourjé states. The California Locos stand as trailblazers and guardians of authenticity in a time when the Los Angeles creative spirit is sought after by museums, brands, and even Olympic committees.

As Tourjé perceives the exhibition, he emphasizes its role in both validating their artistic narrative and questioning who controls the storytelling.