Hand-shaping a Surfboard with Ziran
During the spring of 2021 Matt documented the crafting of a hand-shaped surfboard by Andrew Teasdale, of Ziran surfboards.
Based in Falmouth on the south coast of Cornwall, UK, Andy undertakes the process of shaping himself in its entirety. A skill that demands skill, patience and focus.
Growing up surfing the sun kissed coast of southern California, Andy has a strong surfing pedigree and knowledge of surf craft, this shines through in the boards he creates.
A humble guy who shreds on any board, we really appreciate what he is doing.
It’s very special to be surfing a board in Cornwall that has been crafted locally. That goes without saying if you are looking for a new board you see more of what Ziran is about here:
In their own words:
“Ziran is a concept in Taoist philosophy, it is something that happens naturally, it is not forced, it is spontaneous and free.
This bleeds into our lives, in how we create, how we surf and how we live.
SHAPING
We channel this philosophy through our approach, making by hand and surfing alternative boards, exploring the diverse feelings different boards can give you in different conditions.
Trying to absorb the maximum amount of fun the ocean has to offer.
ART
We use our boards as a platform to collaborate with friends and like-minded artists to display visual interpretations of Ziran. While also creating our own content.
Bringing surfboards and art together in a curated space to spark conversations.
CREATIVE PLAY
Creative play is immersion in a challenge or task for the pure enjoyment of being in it, with no rules It’s something you can pour yourself into, and make your own.
Ziran is our umbrella or catalyst for creative play which encompasses screen printing, surfing, photography, drawing, curation, conversations, sharing ideas, D.I.Y. ethics, meeting new people and having as much fun as possible in and around the ocean.
Giving us a cohesive platform to bring all of this together and share it.”
We have shared the pretty much all of the process from shaping the blank through to making and glassing the fins.
