Professional Surfer Turned Artist Steffi Aless Kerson Debuts First Solo Exhibition “Erosion”
Professional surfer turned contemporary abstract artist, Steffi Aless Kerson, opened her first solo exhibition titled “Erosion of Self, Embracing Impermanence” last night at her Chelsea Studio in New York City.
The show will be on view until July 22nd and features 6 medium and large-scale paintings, many inspired by her time in the ocean as a member of the USA surf team, taking part in big wave surfing. Steffi’s exhibition portrays the beauty found within erosion, and the intricacies that emerge with adapting to shifting circumstances.
During her time as an athlete and part-time creative director at Hurley, Steffi discovered a deep passion for design, which led her to transition into the field of interior and architectural design. In addition to her design pursuits, Steffi's artistic endeavors have also flourished, showcasing her as a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions not only as a surfer, but as an artist as well.
“Erosion” explores themes of natural decay and transformation, inviting viewers to contemplate the beauty found in the impermanence of the world surrounding us. Her artworks capture landscapes, cultural traditions, and her own personal identity over time, evoking a sense of introspection and connection to the ever-changing nature of life. The ocean served the backdrop for her childhood, where she learned to care for the planet, and is a source of inspiration for her art.
“When I transitioned from the world of competitive and big wave surfing to that of a designer and artist, I immersed myself in the realm of ethical design and architecture, aiming to make a tangible difference in ocean communities,” says Kerson. “However, I gradually discovered that my self identity began to deteriorate and I felt lost. Art became my solace, a tool for self reflection. Through this collection, I learned to appreciate the world for what it is, acknowledging that there are aspects beyond our control, things we cannot always fix. However, even though we cannot change everything, we can still make a difference, and we can still grow. My art captures the essence of this perpetual change.”
~ Steffi Aless Kerson, Artist
“Erosion” will be on view until July 22nd, by appointment only.
526 West 26th Street
Studio 722
New York, NY 10001
RSVP: info@steffialesskerson.com
Artist Statement:
“Since my earliest memories, the ocean has been a constant presence in my life. It served as the backdrop for my childhood, where I learned to care for the planet and appreciate the ever-changing landscapes it presented. From those formative years, I developed a deep-rooted connection with the sea - a connection that would ultimately shape my journey as a professional surfer.
However, my life took a turn when I transitioned from the world of competitive and big wave surfing to that of a designer and artist. As I immersed myself in the realm of ethical design and architecture, aiming to make a tangible difference in ocean communities, I gradually discovered that my self-identity began to deteriorate. I found myself feeling lost, questioning who I truly was amidst this new path. Art became my solace, a medium through which I could cope with the overwhelming changes and uncertainties that surrounded me. It became a tool for self-reflection, enabling me to become more conscious and aware of the ever-shifting world and the impermanence ingrained in our existence.
Through this collection, I learned to appreciate the world for what it is, acknowledging that there are aspects beyond our control, things we cannot always fix. Yet, this realization did not deter me from the pursuit of making a positive impact. I recognized that while we cannot change everything, we can still make a difference. Just as landscapes evolve, identities transform, and societal standards shift, we face erosion everyday—physical, emotional, and spiritual erosion. It is through this erosion that we are granted an opportunity for growth and renewal. My art captures the essence of this perpetual change, serving as a visual narrative of our dynamic world. I strive to portray the beauty found within erosion, the exquisite intricacies that emerge as we adapt to shifting circumstances. In embracing impermanence, I explore the delicate balance between acceptance and action, reminding myself and others that life is in a constant state of flux.
My journey as an artist and designer has been an exploration of the ever-changing tides, both within myself and the world around me. It is a reminder that we are part of a greater tapestry, one that encompasses the oceanic landscapes we cherish, the identities we construct, and the societies we inhabit. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace the erosion of their own lives, to find beauty in the ever-evolving nature of existence, and to recognize the power we hold to make a positive impact, no matter how small. Life, like the ocean, is an intricate dance of ebb and flow, erosion and renewal. Through these paintings, I strive to capture these nuances and provoke introspection, fostering a deeper connection to the world and ourselves.”
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