Cory Diamond
I have been painting surfboards in Tofino for over seven years. Although I originally never intended to be an artist, living in Tofino has inspired me to explore my artistic talent and the depths of my creativity. Each surfboard I paint is a new challenge that I view as an opportunity to learn and progress as an artist. This project was a new challenge that was particularly important to me.
I felt very honoured to be invited to be a part of the Tofino Boardwalk Project among such incredibly talented artists. Not only was this an opportunity to help promote Tofino’s art culture, but it gave the artists a forum to demonstrate some of the characteristics that make our town so unique.
Tofino is a very artistic community. It is very easy to find inspiration in a location surrounded by such natural beauty. Those of us who are fortunate enough to live here, or even visit here, are blessed with the opportunity to enjoy the fascinating wildlife, intriguing local culture, and picturesque landscapes. As an artist, I appreciate the aesthetic beauty in everything that makes the west coast so special.
The first time I ever went to the Salmon Hatchery, just outside of Ucluelet, I was completely awe-struck by the visual beauty of the place. With the waterfalls, the forest, the bears, and the multitudes of salmon swimming up and down the stream, I knew that I would one day paint that scene. It wasn’t until now that I had found the right excuse to do it.