Nicholas Knopf, also known as Knoffy, is an artist, craftsman, and surfer from Santa Cruz, California. Knoffy was born in Salinas, California, and grew up on a boat in the Moss Landing Harbor, where he learned to sail and surf. He moved to Santa Cruz in his teenage years and hasn't left since. Knoffy's work is influenced by bold graphic elements and surfing culture and offers a distinct style that is easily recognized.
“Surfing is dynamic, and most people aren't paying attention to what is happening around them. If you pay close attention, you can find glimpses of emotion ranging from euphoria to rage.”
My work is mainly character-based and captures the human element of the California surf culture. I enjoy taking subtle but emotional face gestures I notice and implementing them into my compositions. I also explore the wacky and sometimes surreal moments in my life and imagination. Art has given me autonomy by allowing me to create my own world.
I grew up skateboarding, and my dad would take me on road trips to different skate parks. During those trips, I always saw exciting street art as well as artwork on skate decks and magazines. Bold graphic styles and outsider artwork were the kind of stuff I liked. I remember my dad bought me a Jim Philip's art book and I was just blown away by his characters and his impressive line work.
Working in the trades and building surfboards for the last decade has helped me develop skills I now use for everything from cutting wood panels, painting, and varnishing to framing and hardware. I went back to school for graphic design, and it opened up all sorts of doors as far as expanding my skillset. Working digitally has been a great experience because I've been able to develop my style and do interesting stuff.