Famed Artists Aaron Chang and Wade Koniakowsky
Open the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery to Great Acclaim
SOLANA BEACH, CA—Award-winning photographer, Aaron Chang has partnered with distinguished artist, Wade Koniakowsky to launch the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery. More than 450 guests attended the Grand Opening, which took place from 6-9 p.m. on July 10th at 415 South Cedros Avenue in Solana Beach.
According to Aaron Chang, “It was exciting to see the turnout for our opening. I was stoked with the beautiful vibe in the Gallery –– the joy was contagious.”
Showcased at the event were many of the finest pieces produced by each of the owners including a collaboration surfboard crafted by renowned shaper John Carper, hand painted by Wade Koniakowsky, and inlaid with original photographs by Aaron Chang. According to Carper, “It is the most beautiful surfboard I have ever seen.” Within minutes of the unveiling, the masterpiece P.B.U. board was sold to a private collector and a portion of proceeds were donated to Surf Aid International.
Throughout the evening, a number of selected Artist Proofs were purchased by local collectors, making the event a huge success for the entire Ocean Art Gallery team. Adding to the ambiance was live music by Benjamin Myers, complimentary appetizers, and autographed commemorative books.
"The grand opening was all we wanted it to be,” says Gallery Co-Owner Wade Koniakowsky. “We were stoked to share our vision for a Gallery that pays tribute to the ocean."
The new Gallery, located in the heart of the Cedros Design District, is open to the public Monday through Thursday 10 to 6, Friday and Saturday 10 to 8, and Sunday noon to 5. On permanent display are Wade’s selected oil paintings, reflecting his unique ability to incorporate the soul of the tropics into mystical works of unforgettable artistry. Guests can also view Aaron’s exotic images collected from a lifetime of traveling, from the waves of Tahiti to the deserts of Africa. All featured art is available for purchase.
In the near future, both artists anticipate hosting workshops to inspire young artists and partnering with non-profits that focus on the areas of Ocean Environmentalism, Humanitarian and Education.
According to Wade, “Our goal is that anyone who walks into our Gallery should instantly ‘experience’ the ocean.”
For more information call 858-345-1880
Clark Little Book Signing and Art Show, at OCEAN ART Gallery - Friday, April 23 7-10 pm. - Meet Clark and see his amazing Shorebreak Photography at 346 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, CA 92075. Call Lynn with any questions 760-419-6103.
Ocean Art meets the NFL - Wade has just completed an installation of 24 pieces of art in the personal training facility of Troy Polamalu of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Super Bowl Champion used the art to create a polynesian sanctuary for his off-season training. The installation included 3 commissioned oil paintings, up to 4x8 feet, along with prints and several painted surfboards. The art is a tribute to Polamalu's Samoa heritage.
Koniakowsky selected as featured artist for San Diego Art Walk - Join Wade April 24 and 25 for the San Diego art walk in Little Italy. This is the largest anual art event in San Diego. Wade will be among the 15 featured artists at the show and will be showing new works for sale.
Surf Story Project, the epic 444 page masterpiece of surfing history and art is now in circulation due to the relentless passion of author and visionary Robb Havassy. The coffee table book is now being distributed in fine book stores worldwide and contains 4 spreads of wavescape paintings by Wade Koniakowsky set to the text of renowned surf author Chris Ahrens.
Wyland Gallery in Haleiwa hosts a Surf Art Show featuring Wade Koniakowsky along with several other renowned artists. Haleiwa, Hawaii, December 5 & 6, 2009. This show coincides with the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing at Sunset Beach.
Gidget Pro Sunset Beach contest poster features art and design by Wade Koniakowsky. Congratulations to Carissa Moore who took 1st place when the contest wrapped up on November 28th, 2009.
Ocean Art hosts Art Show with Steve Barton, Pete Tillack and Wade Koniakowsky - Ocean Art Gallery, Solana Beach, CA, November 19, 6-9pm. Three of the biggest names in San Diego Art will come together for one evening to show their latest works.
Master surfboard shaper Dick Brewer collaborates with Koniakowsky at Sacred Craft - Del Mar Fairgrounds, October 10 &11, Del Mar CA- Legendary board builder Dick Brewer will be the honored at Sacred Craft - the world's largest Surfboard Consumer Expo. Brewer and Koniakowsky will present 7 new boards, shaped by Brewer with art by Koniakowsky. The boards represent decades of craft and dedication to the sport of surfing and the ocean lifestyle. They will be for sale. Wade will be do a painting demonstration at the show. A special brithday reception for Brewer, who is turning 73 will take place the evening of October 3 at Koniakowsky's Ocean Art Gallery in Solana Beach. Friends of Brewer and serious collectors wanting to attend may inquire at info@koniakowsky.com.
