BY ADDISON VEROT
Mission Surf surf shop in Pacific Beach has been a cornerstone of the local surfing culture since 1968. Nestled right next to the beach, it embodies the laid-back, vibrant lifestyle that Pacific Beach is famous for. Surrounded by popular bars, Mission Surf is more than just a shop; it’s a hub for surfers and beachgoers alike.
Recently, Mission Surf turned a city challenge into a vibrant community celebration with the addition of a stunning mural on the shop’s exterior. When faced with a mandate to remove graffiti from their alley wall, the owner seized the opportunity to create something meaningful and inspiring. This initiative coincided perfectly with their upcoming music festival event, Mission Mayhem, as the mural itself is a homage to the local music scene.
Drawing inspiration from the punk-rock sound of one of the headlining bands, Alternatives Citizens, known for their frequent visits to Mission Surf, BlankcanvasLA and Mission Surf employee Matt Stamatov conceptualized a mural that vividly captures the energy of a band passionately playing music. You can spot a member of the band sporting a Mission Surf hat in their latest music video, “Hoping.”
Notably, the mural also pays tribute to the owner of Postmark Record’s Italian greyhound, Teela. Teela, who spends her days at the Soma music venue, represents the connection between the beach, the music, and the people of Pacific Beach. This mural not only beautifies the space but also showcases Mission Surf’s deep ties to the community and its dedication to fostering a creative, inclusive environment.
Stop by to see Teela playing the drums in the mural, painted by BlankcanvasLA, and come on in to find all your beach needs and experience the strong sense of community that makes Pacific Beach so special.
