A new exhibition at the California Surf Museum in Oceanside, California, highlights the transformative influence of the California Locos, a collective of artists known for merging various subcultures into a cohesive artistic narrative. Opening on October 20, 2025, this exhibition not only celebrates Southern California’s surf and skate heritage but also reflects the region’s broader cultural evolution.
From Subculture to Mainstream
The California Locos, founded in 2011 by influential artist Dave Tourjé, has played a pivotal role in bringing the vibrant energy of Southern California’s artistic subcultures to a global audience. The collective includes notable figures like Chaz Bojórquez, John Van Hamersveld, Norton Wisdom, and Gary Wong, whose diverse backgrounds span fine art, Cholo-style graffiti, and the punk scene. Their artworks have transitioned from the streets to gallery walls, marking a significant shift in how these cultural expressions are perceived.
In a reflection on this journey, Tourjé stated, “Galleries and museums used to overlook this kind of work. Now, it’s completely embraced. But as we gain widespread legitimacy, we also need to protect authenticity and make sure the original stories, people, and neighborhoods that birthed this movement aren’t written out.”
Artistic Legacy and Cultural Impact
The exhibition, titled “Surf Art: Exploring California’s Coastal Culture,” draws connections between the California Locos and the historical context of Southern California’s surf scene. The artists’ work is deeply rooted in the rebellious spirit of the 1960s and 1970s, emerging from a time when surfing was synonymous with counterculture. The collective’s creative output has significantly influenced not only local art but also global branding and design, even extending to Olympic themes.
Tourjé elaborated on the collective’s legacy, saying, “The California Locos were born out of rebellion. The artwork born from that milieu now hangs in museums, influences global branding, and shapes Olympic design. It’s surreal, but it’s also vindication for a life steeped in aesthetic rebellion.” This sentiment is echoed in the book “California Locos Renaissance and Rebellion,” which examines the intricate relationship between fine art and street culture in Los Angeles.
The ongoing exhibition at the California Surf Museum and the Oceanside Museum of Art underscores the significance of the California Locos in shaping SoCal’s identity. As museums and organizations increasingly look to capture the creative essence of Southern California, the California Locos stand out as both innovators and custodians of this cultural narrative.
The collective’s impact is evident not only in the art world but also in broader cultural conversations around identity and representation. “I see this show as inclusion and validation,” Tourjé remarked. “But we need to ask who’s telling the story. The SoCal legacy isn’t just surfboards and sunsets — it’s punk rock, lowriders, street art, multiculturalism, and creative defiance. That’s what makes LA unique. That’s what we represent.”
The exhibition continues through February 2026, offering insight into the rich tapestry of Southern California’s artistic landscape and the enduring influence of the California Locos.
