Surf photographer puts his best into a new book

Advertiser Staff

Art Brewer submitted his first surf shots to Surfer magazine in 1967 and, over 35 years of pioneering photography, has demonstrated a talent for getting where the action is — and with the people who made it happen.

Now past 50, he has got a lot to show for a life behind the lens, and with "Masters of Surf Photography: Art Brewer" (Journal Concepts, Inc.; $65.), the evidence is out on glossy paper.

This book is a blast, with as many awe-inspiring shots from nature ("1980, Mauna Kea flow, Hilo-side") as from high surf, and a glorious selection of surfers caught in their element.

Admirer Steve Barilotti calls him "profane" and "opinionated," and the same adjectives apply to his work.

"Art's portraiture digs beneath the outer veneer of his subjects to conjure often humorous, sometimes kind, usually candid, occasionally cynical images," says Steve Pezman of The Surfer's Journal, whose parent company published "Masters."

An exhibit of Brewer's work and book-signing celebrating the book's publication take place Sunday, 2-5 p.m. at Haleiwa Joe's.

Quiksilver Edition is sponsoring the event in association with The Surfer's Journal and the O'ahu Surfrider Foundation.

Brewer also will sign his book Saturday, 2-4 p.m. at the Russ K Boardriders Club, 1714 Kapi'olani Blvd., and 4-6 p.m. at the Board Room in the Ward Entertainment Center.