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Photo by McCluskey 2002

An often overlooked aspect of surfing is the experienced surfer's observation skills when out in the water. It speaks powerfully to our primal and ancient connection with the natural world.

We've all seen the seasoned local who is simply dialed in to the spot and conditions - he/she knows where to sit, and knows the boils, currents, and obstacles to look out for. After some solid experience with surfing and a particular spot, you become that seasoned local. You scan the horizon with purpose, in tune with the sea and swells, moving frequently to meet the forming waves at just the right time. It is a wonderful feeling...

fashionistas

Photo copyright 2000 Gazelle

Lurking, Spanish Steps, Rome

roman holiday

Photo copyright 2000 Gazelle

Italian soldiers on leave in Rome...

arrival

It doesn't happen all that often but I was out surfing today to experience the forerunners of a small SSE swell at Trestles. It went from barely knee high to chest and shoulder high in minutes. Water about 73, air about 80. Dolphins out. Sweet.

Sorry, no photos...

on the cross

Photo copyright 1996 Gazelle

Cemetery in the south of France.

I'll be out of my computer's reach for awhile, so I'll see you all next Tuesday or so. Pray for surf.

toasted forest

Photo copyright 1995 Gazelle

This is an image from Circle X Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains, taken after a wildfire scorched the hillsides. The Oaks pictured above survived the fire because they are designed to do just that. They lost all of their leaves from the extreme heat, but they were not burned. I took this photograph after the first rain helped the leaves fall and become part of the earth again.

swamped

Photo copyright 1998 Gazelle

backside

Photo copyright 1995 Gazelle

portrait #5

Photo copyright 1992 Gazelle

Ms. Makihele, Barra de Navidad, Mexico

portrait #4

Photo copyright 1995 Gazelle

My little brother Brett, looking tough.

portrait #3

Photo copyright 1992 Gazelle

Tourist trying on Venice Beach sunglasses...

portrait #2

Photo copyright 1995 Gazelle

This is Dennis. He is a first generation Mexican-American with light blue eyes. When I knew him he lived in his van and worked at an organic juice bar in Venice Beach, concocting special combinations to heal his customer's insides and outsides. He is a talented cook, too.