SURFER DNA In the wake of the storm, NY-based photographer and lifelong surfer Alberto Guglielmi was drawn to help the communities surrounding the breaks where he surfs regularly, the greater Rockaway and Long Beach areas, and the idea for Surfer DNA was born. By blending prop styling with technology, each image depicts the accomplished subjects’ tie to the ocean via surfboard fins emerging from their body. Alberto describes the project as, "a visual allegory for the change that occurs when someone becomes a surfer: it doesn't just affect your life; it becomes part of your DNA. Whether in or out of the water, a surfer’s tie to the ocean is always present” CONCEPT and PROCESS Alberto assembled a remarkable mix of 39 creatives -- actors, designers, photographers, filmmakers, chefs -- a global community united through surf. Each of these participants, successful in their chosen vocation but surfers by avocation, have generously shared their likeness in an effort to support those affected by the hurricane. “The board becomes an extension of one's self,” says Alberto, “the means by which they make a connection to the water, both physically and spiritually.” Alberto was able to capture the unique emotional relationship that a surfer has with their board by incorporating fins as a physical extension of the body. During the shoot, fins (donated by MFC Hawaii ) were attached to each subject with Velcro straps – their neck, arms, back, legs, hands, etc. In post-production those straps were removed, and subsequently the fins seamlessly emerge from the subjects’ bodies portraying the striking embodiment of the deep, inherent tie to the ocean felt by each surfer. CAUSE Non-profit Waves for Water has coordinated a full-fledged Hurricane Relief Initiative in response to Hurricane Sandy that has decimated the North Eastern seaboard. They are addressing the initial survival needs on many levels from first responder assistance to rubble removal and ultimately the rebuilding efforts. Their extensive experience with disaster relief that unique positions Waves for Water to help organize, mobilize and deploy a strategic response initiative for the victims of Sandy primarily on the surf-based coastal communities. OPENING JUNE 5TH in NYC JUNE 13TH in LA Click here for the backstage video