Surfpaints Interview Series
We hand-select individuals from our community to hear the stories behind their designs.
Hi Paola, Welcome to the Surfpaints Interview Series!
@the_powpow
1. Can you introduce yourself? Age, location, occupation, surfing experience?
I’m Paola, born and raised in Mexico City, away from the beach… used to have a corporate career in Communication Sciences. I now live in Brisbane, Australia and currently, work as a yoga teacher for children and grown-ups too. I, however, have a deep passion for art! I’m constantly engaged in some art projects. My surf experience is almost null, I’ve spent more time painting boards than surfing them.
2. What made you want to paint your surfboard?
A friend asked me if I could paint a board for him, and I’m very grateful he did because since then, I’ve painted over 15 boards and a couple of skateboards with SurfPaints. I loved it so much I’ve also painted Roller-skates and musical instruments!
3. What Surfboard did you paint, and why that one?
I painted a Mick Fanning softboard.
But also some pyzels, AQSS, sevens, DHD, etc.
4. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I usually find my inspiration in nature: sea creatures, fun animals, nature patterns, etc.
5. How do you rate your artistic skills?
I am becoming pretty skilled lately :)
6. Roughly how long did it take to complete?
Some boards take longer than others, just because of the details that I love adding at the end. Roughly I’d say it takes me three days sessions of 3-4 hours.
7. Any tips for preparing the surfboard before painting it?
For the MF Softboard, I didn’t need to do anything because the paint ran very smoothly and the board was quite absorbent. With other boards that have a glossy texture, it is very important to do a light sand before starting, which helps the paint to stay longer and avoid peeling when it dries.
8. What was one tool that helped you achieve this amazing design?
I’m lucky to have an iPad that allows me to mock up straight on top of the actual board picture, and it makes it so easy to trace with accurate proportions. It also helps to visualise the colour palette.
9. What is your favourite thing about using Surfpaints?
They’re super easy to use, and the results are vibrant and fun!
10. One piece of advice you would like to give others about painting a surfboard for their first time?
Prep your board, have fun painting, seal it and enjoy!