David Mesfin Art

David Mesfin Art Wade in the Water: A Journey into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture reclaims the 1,000-year-old tradition of Black surfing.

Braiding historical accounts with modern-day testimonials, the film dismantles the racial barriers of conventional surf culture. Braiding historical accounts with modern-day testimonials, the film dismantles the racial barriers of conventional surf culture, delves into the overlooked history of Black surfing's legacy, and honors its current movement—inspiring the next generation of Black surfers.

The Rising Dawn. A joyful and inspiring film to experience. The craft, the story, and what it represents for future surf...
08/30/2026

The Rising Dawn. A joyful and inspiring film to experience. The craft, the story, and what it represents for future surf storytellers around the world are truly special.

I’m looking forward to seeing more films that offer new perspectives on African aquatic culture and the diverse stories within it.

Congratulations to Nadi Saddy and the entire surf community in Côte d’Ivoire!

Thanks to our friends Rivian Coast Film & Music Festival and California Surf Museum

Annual Pan African Beach Day at Dockweiler Beach with the Black Surfers Collective and Supervisor Holly Mitchell. We car...
08/09/2026

Annual Pan African Beach Day at Dockweiler Beach with the Black Surfers Collective and Supervisor Holly Mitchell. We carry forward the vision of the late Dedon Kamathi, who established this gathering to break down historical barriers and create a safe space for Black aquatic culture. Through community collaboration, his spirit of reconnection thrives. The ocean hasn’t always been welcoming, but a strong community will always exist where there is a will.

08/09/2026

Celebrating the Annual Pan African Beach Day at Dockweiler Beach with the Black Surfers Collective and patron of surfing, Supervisor Holly Mitchell. This gathering carries forward the vision of the late Dedon Kamathi—a dedicated community activist, former Black Panther, KPFK radio host, and a foundational figure in the Black Surfers Collective. Kamathi understood that systemic barriers historically alienated divers communities from aquatic culture. He championed this day to actively counter that history by creating a culturally affirming, safe space focused on inclusivity, free ocean education, and water safety.

Through the ongoing support and collaboration of the city, individuals, and non-profits, Kamathi's spirit of reconnection continues to come to fruition. The ocean hasn't always been a welcoming place, but a thriving community will always exist when you have the will.

Honoring freedom, legacy, and community in the water today. The original intention of the Ebony Beach Club was always ab...
06/20/2026

Honoring freedom, legacy, and community in the water today. The original intention of the Ebony Beach Club was always about bringing Black people together to celebrate life, and is doing an incredible job continuing that powerful mission. An unforgettable historical Juneteenth surf session with the and surf family.

Photo:

A beautiful day honoring Nick Gabaldón with the Black Surfers Collective. Nothing but pure joy, catching waves, sharing ...
06/07/2026

A beautiful day honoring Nick Gabaldón with the Black Surfers Collective. Nothing but pure joy, catching waves, sharing stories, and laughter on the beach. It's that time of the year to connect with Mother Ocean.

I’ve been selected for The People’s Artist presented by Johnny Depp.I’m competing for a feature in and a solo exhibit i...
05/04/2026

I’ve been selected for The People’s Artist presented by Johnny Depp.

I’m competing for a feature in and a solo exhibit in Los Angeles at . I need your help to make it happen!

Vote for me here: https://peoplesartist.org/2026/david-mesfin

04/21/2026

I am truly humbled to accept this award on behalf of everyone who champions my curiosity in humanity. To the ones who leave the door open for my opinions, who pull up a chair at the table to hear my voice, and who truly value my perspective: this is for you.

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