Kook + Community

In 2007 Matthew Antichevich, a Hemet based sculptor, created "Magic Carpet Ride." The now infamous surfer statue, located on Highway 101 and Chesterfield in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, has become known as the Cardiff Kook. The bronze piece, standing more than 12 feet high, was commissioned by the Cardiff Botanical Society. It's perched on a piece of pricey coastline real estate, residing over one of Cardiff's busiest intersections. Once unveiled, the Kook was met with much opposition and criticism by both surfers and non-surfers. Many said that it was not a true representation of a surfer's stance, particularly it's limp wrists and outstretched arms, and comes across as goofy. What was intended to be a celebration of some of the area's best surf breaks soon became the focus of pranks. But over time, the masks, costumes, and signs have in a sense brought the community together. While it's not encouraged or condoned by the city, many of the pranks are far from offensive, leading even Encinitas Mayor, Dan Dalager, to recently state that he personally loved the paper mache shark that gained National attention when it swallowed the Kook. With bikers, joggers, surfers, walkers and beach goers, passing the statue daily, it's a refreshing surprise to wake up to see a new creation. Once adorned, gaggles of gawkers stand around photographing, talking and appreciating the latest creation. Included here are some of the latest pranks: the great white attack, wedding celebration and fight against breast cancer. I personally enjoy it and can't wait to see what comes next. With each passing week, the bar keeps rising.

* images Megan.Christine