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Marine artist, photographer and sculptor Chris Barela spent his
formative years in Southern California, surfing in Orange County. After
ascending to the pinnacle of success in the world of competitive
professional surfing in the 1970s, Chris continues to derive pleasure
from the ocean near his home and studio, located on the Big Island of
Hawaii.
Careful study and documentation of the marine life he
observes first-hand enables Chris to sculpt magnificent undersea
creatures, from the tiny seahorse to the impressive marlin.
Barela's
charming sea turtles evoke both the wisdom and playful demeanor of
these sage elder statesmen who live beneath the waves. Chris often sees
and films turtles from his surfboard, and says that every time is a
special encounter that leaves him smiling.
"Each turtle has a unique personality, and the way they cruise
around at a leisurely pace is a reminder to us to slow down and enjoy
life too. They definitely like to come around and check out the humans,
see what we’re up to in their living room. "
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