Tim Bessell's Pop Art Surfboards Sold at Gagosian

Artist Tim Bessell, born in 1957 and based in San Diego, California, has created a series of surfboards inspired by Andy Warhol's works, now available for $10,000 each. The boards, featuring Warhol motifs like Marilyn and Carbon Flowers, are produced in limited, numbered editions and sold through Bessell's website and the Gagosian Gallery shop. Bessell, who considers himself an artist first, has long merged his passions for art and surfing. His friendship with Warhol dates back to the 1960s when Warhol lived near Bessell's home in La Jolla while filming "San Diego Surf." The project began in 2012 when a friend suggested Bessell explore FAB, a website featuring Warhol-inspired skateboards. Bessell then contacted the Andy Warhol Foundation, which approved a license after reviewing his proposal. The article also notes the broader trend of artist-designed skateboards in the US, citing Italian artist Guido Bisagni (108) who launched a painted skateboard for €1,200 in collaboration with Skate Muzik. Additionally, it references fashion collaborations merging art and commerce, such as Louis Vuitton's Jeff Koons handbag collection, Dr Martens' Tate Britain line inspired by J.M.W. Turner, and Vans' partnership with the Van Gogh Museum.