ERIK
ABEL

BUILT AROUND WATER

Erik Abel’s work begins with a lifelong connection to the ocean.

Surfing, travel and time spent outdoors shape a visual language that articulates the spirit of water and the awe found in the natural world.

SOUTHERN OREGON, OPEN HORIZONS

Erik lives and works in Southern Oregon, surrounded by forests, rivers, coastline and the changing conditions of the Pacific Northwest.

That environment keeps nature close to the studio and gives him an endless supply of shape, motion, color and atmosphere.

THE SPIRIT OF THE WATER

Erik’s work does not simply depict waves, wildlife and landscapes.

It tries to capture the energy moving through them: the current under the surface, the pressure before a wave breaks and the strange calm that follows.

WATER NEVER REALLY HOLDS STILL.

ART THAT TRAVELS

Erik’s original artwork has appeared in galleries around the world.

His commercial work has also attracted clients including Patagonia, Rip Curl, REI, Billabong and Sector 9.

COASTAL CONNECTION

Erik’s towel design for Happy Faced carries the same sense of movement, ecology and interconnected natural systems found throughout his larger body of work.

Land, water, weather and wildlife meet in a composition made for wherever the coastline takes you next.

GIVING SOMETHING BACK

Environmental responsibility is an active part of Erik’s creative practice.

He supports environmental projects through nonprofit partnerships, exhibitions and commercial collaborations that help direct attention and resources toward the places inspiring the work.