Dennis Jarvis

Dennis Jarvis is a multifaceted artist, sculptor, globally recognized surf shop owner, craftsman, shaper, and former professional athlete. Growing up in Southern California, he began airbrushing surfboards in his teens.

His resourcefulness led to the creation of a makeshift spray booth in his bedroom, using his mother's ironing board as a rack for his surfboards. Jarvis developed a career as an airbrush artist, initially selling his designs to local South Bay surf shops. Jarvis' high school art teacher at Mira Costa, John Jancar, recognized his talent and mentored him, instilling the principle that "simplicity is the key to good design," a philosophy Jarvis has maintained throughout his career.

As a young man, Jarvis worked as an artist, craftsman, shaper, and athlete, traveling the world as a professional surfer. His success led to the establishment of Spyder Surf in Hermosa Beach, marking its 40th year as a family-run enterprise. Jarvis's expertise stems from countless hours dedicated to shaping and painting surfboards. Spyder Surf has launched Jarvis to acclaim, earning him thirteen Shaper of the Year awards, Surfer's Hall of Fame induction, recognition as a distinguished alum at Mira Costa High School, and more magazine features than any other surfboard company in Los Angeles since the 1960s.

The Spyder Surf brand propelled Dennis Jarvis's art onto the global stage, making him a sought-after visual and conceptual artist. Filmmakers such as James Cameron and Kathryn Bigelow commissioned Jarvis to create dynamic visuals for the movie Point Break. His involvement expanded to behind-the-scenes roles as a Concept Designer and Creative Designer in TV and film, culminating in awards for his work as a producer and director. Notably, designer Clive Wilkinson enlisted Jarvis to impart a surf-themed ambiance to the renowned advertising agency Chi.