The Surf-Inspired Art of Andy Davis

Andy Davis has always been drawn to “Dream and Play”. Fortunately, his artistic talents, strong connections and life experiences have enabled him to make it a reality through his work. His work embodies the playful, free-flowing essence of surf culture, capturing moments of joy, movement, and nostalgia in a way that resonates globally. While we proudly claim him as a local artist, his art has reached audiences far beyond North County San Diego, gracing walls, apparel, and galleries worldwide.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Andy, an artist I’ve admired for years, to dive into his creative world. Honest, humble, and deeply introspective, Andy balances light and dark, chaos and simplicity—all of which find their way into his work. His journey as an artist is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for surfing and dreamy self-expression.

Roots in North County

Andy grew up in North County San Diego, playing everything from baseball and basketball to water polo. School wasn’t his thing, but drawing was. His mother encouraged his artistic side, and his grandparents provided unwavering support. Then, at age 12, he discovered surfing—and everything changed. Immersed in the surf, skate, and action sports culture of the ‘80s, Andy found a world that would shape both his art and his future.

One of his good friends is Joel Tudor. Meeting Tudor at 14 opened doors into a tight-knit surf community that celebrated style, music, and creativity. Tudor, a surf icon known for his smooth, effortless longboarding, embodied an old-school approach that deeply resonated with Andy. The two bonded over their mutual appreciation for classic surf aesthetics, and through Tudor, Andy was introduced to a world of surf films, music, skateboarding and surf sessions, and a tribe of like-minded individuals who saw surfing as more than just a sport—it was an art form. They shared an adventurous spirit and passion that fueled Andy’s artistic identity.

The Birth of Free

Instead of following a conventional path to college, Andy took a leap and started his own apparel brand, Free. Surrounded by friends launching their own creative ventures, he wanted in. At the time, Andy was working at a surf shop. “I had no idea what I was doing, but I loved the name Free” and that’s how Andy’s clothing brand started.

With the help of his longtime friend Hago (founder of Leucadia’s Hago Tacos), who handled the business side, Free gained traction. But despite its early success, trademark and management challenges eventually led to its dissolution. Looking back, Andy remains grateful for the experience and the connections he made along the way.

Art Takes Center Stage

As Free wound down, Andy poured his energy into art. His first big shows took place in Japan, New York, and Laguna Beach, leading to design gigs with Toes on the Nose, Roxy, and Billabong. He was among the first to depict women surfing in a way that emphasized grace and style—something uncommon at the time. His work with Roxy lasted just two seasons, but his designs for Billabong lasted eight.

After his time with major brands, Andy embraced full-time freelancing. His studios in Solana Beach and now Leucadia have allowed him to collaborate with brands like Patagonia, Birkenstock, Captain Fin, and Vans. His work extends beyond clothing, covering record albums, magazine covers, murals, and more.

A Sun Bum Collaboration

When one door closes, another opens. As Andy’s Solana Beach studio was closing in 2020, an opportunity with Sun Bum arose. They offered him studio space, and he created a mural on their building while designing for a new product launch. “I feel pretty lucky to have had that opportunity,” he says.

The Artistic Essence of Andy Davis

Andy’s art is a fusion of surf culture and mass media surrealism—loose, dreamy, and full of warmth. He draws inspiration from childhood influences like Charles Schulz, Dr. Seuss, Hanna-Barbera, John Severson, Margaret Kilgallen and Bill Ogden. His work captures peace and happiness, filtered through bold lines, pop-art colors, and an elegant simplicity that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The past five years have brought a new dimension to his work—more chaotic, layered, and reflective of personal transitions. “It’s hectic, but it always ends in calm,” he explains. His color palette remains light and positive, with an energy that evokes joy and resilience. Women have been a central theme in his art for over 25 years—he refers to them as ‘Alien Angels of Life’—symbols of strength, beauty, and raw emotion.

What’s Next for Andy Davis?

We’re lucky to call Andy a local. His legendary surf art has graced galleries from Bali to Rome, Japan to New York. But for us, all we have to do is stroll by his studio to experience his world-renowned work right in our backyard.

When asked what’s on the horizon, Andy’s answer is simple: “Painting—a lot.” His Leucadia studio is filled with paintings, drawings, and prints, all ready to find new homes. He also takes on design work, commissions, and collaborations.

Website: andydavisstudios.com

Instagram: @andydavisstudios