We're proud to announce an exclusive (and unique) illustrated story by one of our favourite surf artists; Ron Croci…
We were alarmed to hear that Ron nearly 'met his end', due to a serious (and sudden) illness on his recent vacation to Hawaii! But we're happy to say he came through it and has shared his story with us in a series of annotated watercolor paintings documenting his near death experience, the unusual effects of morphine and the beautiful Hawaiian islands he enjoyed and surfed up until falling ill…
www.clubofthewaves.com/surf-culture/hawaii-vacation-watercolors.php
I think Ron's work here is fantastic! Not only do we enjoy his beautiful watercolors, but, through his narrative, embrace his experience of being there. Very well done. Charge on Ron, your the best in your field!
Jim Downey
Nice series Ron. Cool to see the different breaks and landmarks on Oahu and the big island. I'm glad your feeling better... Rich
Below are some comments sent to the artist/author of the My Summer Vacation story/exhibit (used with Ron Croci's permission)...
Just looked through the paintings on COTW site. Nice to gnarly toward the last few--pretty heavy. Glad to have you alive. Take care, p.
Peter Pierce
Some of these are really amazing. The journey through the hospital and surgery etc. Glad you're still here.
Richard Taylor
Great stuff ron..i like the
kaiser left one......u can tell you have ridden there so many times.....ya got the hook and sloap line perfectly matched
Scotty Carter
You're a force of nature and I hope you and I will have many more times together before that final cleanup set comes through.
All the best,
Ed Verreaux
I am so glad you are feeling a bit better now. You really gave us a scare. Just finished reading your article and the paintings "My Summer Vacation" on COTW site.
Wonderful.
Stunning
Brilliant
Nostalgic
Sweet
Genuine
Moving
Warm
and
Beautiful....truly beautiful.
Even the sadness of your illness is told so well that I felt it.
Your painting "
We Belong To Each Other" brought tears to my eyes..... powerful yet so tender and ....dang I miss my dad.
Thanks
Norm Daniels
I saw your new works on Club of The Waves, very nice! I noticed little lefts peeling on the
Waimanala painting... that place was one of the most beautiful I've ever been to... do waves get in there?!
Michael Montanero
A few more comments sent to the artist/author of the My Summer Vacation story/exhibit (used with Ron Croci's permission)...
Ron I loved the series of paintings you made of your trip. Especially touching were the nightmares and the vision of the illness. I also loved the Kaisers parking lot views, it really brought me back there!
Lorca Lueras
Thank God you are alive. How blessed we are to live in a time of advanced medical practice. Your picture diary was a wonderful way to share your experience.
Martin Charlot
Thanks for sticking around Ron
Let me know when your ready to dive the islands again! So lucky to have you as a friend.
Thom Hill