Sodaro South Building

Surfin’ Cinema: Surf Movie Posters from The Hilbert Collection

March 22, 2025 – August 9, 2025

A mini-exhibition; Curated by Mary Platt

In the 1960s and ‘70s, surf movies weren’t just entertainment—they were a way of life. As independent filmmakers captured the thrill of the waves and the spirit of the surf community, their posters became just as iconic as the films themselves. Bold, kinetic and often psychedelic, these posters reflected the sun-drenched escapism and rebellious energy of surf culture.

Artists like John Severson, Rick Griffin and others crafted electrifying graphics that didn’t just advertise a film; they embodied the movement. Their hand-drawn lettering, vibrant colors and surreal imagery pulled audiences in, promising cinematic journeys into the curl. These posters were more than promotional tools; they were art in their own right. With their striking compositions and countercultural aesthetics, they influenced the broader art scene, blending pop art, comic book dynamism and underground psychedelia.

They also helped shape the visual language of surfing itself, reinforcing its image as a daring, free-spirited pursuit. Today, these posters stand as vivid time capsules, capturing an era when the surf film was both a communal ritual and a celebration of the endless search for the perfect wave.