TAVIK is a music driven lifestyle brand designed for active individuals engaged in the modern beach culture. Founded in 2004 by a team of visionaries seeking to create a brand to reflect their Southern California lifestyle, TAVIK offers premium apparel and accessory collections.
W How is waking up for morning light and staying up all night for your dj sets working out? Photography and Music are my two most favorite things in the world. Being able to do both of them in one day is an amazing feeling. It gets pretty exhausting at times but that is what naps are for. Best surfboard airbrush that has been punted toward your face while shooting? Josh Hoyer basically painted the devil on the bottom of his board a couple years ago. It was one of the scariest things I have ever seen coming at me. The prettiest girls in the world are inI am still on the search to find the place. I have heard that Argentina has the prettiest girls but in my eyes Brazil was the best.
COREY WILSON W h e n yo u p l ay a s o u n d //
What’s the best photo you’ve ever shot? My favorite photo to this date is of Pat Gudauskas on the Gold Coast of Australia. I was standing on these rocks with a wide angle lens and this giant splash of water came up right when he did an air. everything came together in the image and created something different than most surf images. You’ve been to the playboy mansion. Is this as much of a bucket list moment as most guys think?
Photographer // Dj -
It is definitely somewhere every man needs to experience. Once you get there you will never ever want to go back home. Summertime in Newport or Winter in Hawaii? Thats a hard decision. it comes down to the choice between beautiful girls or perfect waves. Im gonna have to go with Summertime in Newport. How do you figure out your set list each night - play along with the crowd or chase the trends? I feel that the Music controls the crowd. I like to plan out my entire set to the style of the party. If you could dj for any party, any time, anywhere what would it be?
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Night club in Las Vegas, New Years Eve. All of my friends would have to be there too.
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The key to rocking a party is Loud music, good sound system, hot girls in the crowd, alcohol being poured on people, and playing music that everyone likes. When you play a sound that sounds like your computer is breaking then everyone stopes having fun. What’s your favorite point-of-view? I really enjoy taking photos in the water. It is a whole different perspective out there that not too many people get to see.
Surf + Music
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F You are a bit of a renaissance man, which of your crafts do you prefer, and how is it to juggle so
There seems to be a bit of a common ground between motorbikes and surf boards, how did you
many?
get involved in this relationship?
I’m a lover of making things. Using your hands, turning something old into something new, or making
There’s definitely a connection between the two. Both are forms of self expression and are an escape
something out of scratch can be so rewarding. I started in fine arts, progressed to graphic design, then
from the grind. When I’m on a bike or a wave, there’s nothing else going on...just that moment, which
photography and now wrenching on bikes...I’m constantly finding new outlets, but theyt all revolve
is rare, I think. Bikes are kind of like boards, you ride different ones for different conditions. You
around creativity.
wouldn’t take a noserider log out in fast shore-pound barrels and you don’t rip canyons on a hardtail vintage Triumph. That’s why I need a quiver of each.
What’s your magazine of choice? Lately Iron and Air has been killing it. Still have love for Water too. Fill in the blank – Triumph over Anything
PAT F LY N N punk is alive and well //
Mechanic // Renaissance Man -
You’re part of the GBMC- How did that come about and how has it evolved?
What’s the greatest moment you’ve captured?
The GBMC (Gentleman’s Beard and Mustache Coalition) started out as an idea over beards. We all
I just got back from Birmingham, Alabama shooting the Thruxton Cup with British Customs which was
had facial hair and liked whiskey. Jokingly, we said we should get together and celebrate ‘whiskey
pretty amazing. I had a full access media pass and was on the track watching top racers ripping it -
and whiskers’ and BAM!...The GBMC was born! It’s gone from a 4 friends into 40+ strong family. We
pretty surreal. Shooting weddings I’ve caught some amazing moments. There was one in particular
have a clothing line, a punk-rock cover band, we compete internationally in beard and mustache
where the bride and groom were walking out of the chapel - I caught pure excitement and joy on their
competitions...pretty legit!
faces. That kind of shot that makes anyone happy when they see it...
Who has got the best ‘stache, and what’s the secret weapon? One of our boys, Brenden Kenney, has a savage double handlebar ‘stache. Holding it down for sure. Layrite keeps the club styled. You’re brother is also quite the visionary – how much influence has your family had on how you turned out? We have a family of artists. Grandpa was a great cartoon illustrator, dad’s a crazy drummer, bro’s a professional photographer...the list goes on. Brady and I started our own clothing line when we were in college. We’re constantly bouncing creative ideas off each other. It’s cool having a family that gets it.
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The key to keeping a car running isKnowing a good mechanic! Is Punk really dead? Punk is alive and well. It’s evolving, like anything I suppose, but it’s still happening. You just have to sift through the Jonas Brothers and Bieber to find it.
Craftsman + Artist
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Launched in 2010, Tavik Swimwear is much more than an addition to the overall brand. Tavik swimwear delivers fashion-forward bikinis, one-pieces, and coverups in a multifaceted mix of vivid brights, feminine details, and retro inspiration. Confident, edgy, and not afraid of a good time, Tavik Swimwear is a wild child.
TAVIK WAS FORMED FROM A PASSION FOR MUSIC AND THE FESTIVAL experience. OUR vERSION OF THE ENDLESS SUMMER INCLUDES dance music and hot desert getaways. modern beach culture can also be found away from the coasts, with pool party people finding an escape at various events thrown by tavik each year.
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B How do you manage to stay both personal and original in your creative endeavors? Having a strong sense of self. What has been your favorite set and why? The first time I played at the Avalon in Hollywood, California... it was really special for me. My first big “debut”, if you will… I had been going there for years to see artists who really inspired me and essentially got me into dance music… I told myself one day I would play there, and then it happened. It was very fulfilling for me. Along those lines, what has been your favorite line up that you have been apart of? Electric Daisy Carnival!
SHAE B W h e n yo u p l ay a s o u n d //
Which genre of music has been most influential to develop your personal style? I am from Long Beach… so I grew up listening to hip hop and R&B all of the time. In all honesty though, I love anything with soul. I love being able to hear and connect with that soul. That’s what music is all about… its supposed to move you from deep within. Where would your ideal festival take place and what would your one day line up consist of?
DJ // Model -
Ibiza. Deep, funky basslines. All day. Do you pay attention to the crowds reaction? Does it affect the next track you decide to spin? I feel that the Music controls the crowd. I like to plan out my entire set to the style of the party. Since the music scene is mainly male dominate, how has this affected your career positively and negatively? It’s made me work harder. You really have to own yourself in every way possible to be taken seriously… but I don’t think that applies only in the music world, I think that concept should apply to every day of your life. In order to be successful in any endeavor, you must possess a strong belief in yourself.
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Who would you define as a visionary?
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A visionary is someone who looks at the world and understands that he/she is on this planet to inspire others in some way. Their work is a reflection of their beliefs; a message that is heard universally and understood by the masses. A visionary is inspirational, honest, and unique. If your sets were edible, what would it taste like? Warm apple pie. Smooth, indulgent, and delicious. Mmm. Do you pay attention to the crowds reaction? Does it affect the next track you decide to spin? In terms of performing, its always about the crowd. You have to make sure everyone is on the same level; know that everyone is taken care of and having a joyous time. Fortunately, I always research and know the audience before any gig, and I match my own style to work with the appropriate scene. I aim to please every time I perform. I love having fun, and always want to celebrate life in the best way possible.
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Q In the current time is there anything left to be pioneered? I feel like there are several things to still be pioneered but it is outside of the apparel industry. Clothes are clothes now and everyone has done their take on something new. Now it is about being the best that “You” as a brand can be. Best fit, best quality and best aesthetic is what separates brands now. I was once told that you never stop designing? True or False and why or why not? This is true. I am constantly doing something with design whether it is in my head, on a scratch pad or on the computer, it seems to be non stop. The best motivator for creativity is Friends, girlfriends, beer, surfing, skating, motorcycles and just about anything else that involves our group.
MIKE QUINONES it seems to be non stop //
Your latest project, W.AA.R is all domestic made products, this seems to be important to you personally, can you explain? WAAR and the direction of the brand is very dear to my heart as it is the first project that I have 100% creative control over. My partner and I feel that it is VERY important to give back to the USA and support domestic manufacturing. We have made it a challenge for ourselves to be 100% Domestic. It has taken a long time but we can truly say that everything that goes into our brand comes from the US. This alone feels like an accomplishment.
Designer // T yphography -
We’re lucky enough having you work on our upcoming denim program, how are you finding the experience of working with a line where you’re not the central nucleus? As a designer it is important to be able to look at the brand you are working with, and the market place, to determine what is right for the project you are designing for. I have learned over the years the importance of this and what is relevant and what is not for the specific project you are focusing on. We have had a lot of fun designing for Tavik. You’ve been doing more mixed media pieces – how did this come about? I constantly push myself creatively and feel that this is important in order to stay relevant.
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W.AA.R has recently adopted a few new slogans, Have you attempted the triad – Scoot, Skate, and Surf naked? I have not but we have talked about doing a campaign around this or possibly a photo contest. We will see what stems of it.
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You recently spent some time living and working on the road out of your Westy van, how did you find this contrasting experience? Living in the Westy was amazing. My girlfriend and I were really able to push our relationship to a new level. We would surf, work, eat, and sleep in a very small area with our love of a dog Jack. I think this made us stronger and allowed me to look outside of my typical creative channels for new inspiration. Would you say your creations were more timeless or meant to expire? I like to consider myself a timeless creator with a twist. Everything that I design and put my name behind stems from something timeless but needs an edge to make it different from everyone else. This ideal is very important to me and my creative mind because I feel that separation is really important in the marketplace now but you can not be so outside the box that you are irrelevant.
C Favorite piece ever made and why?
You went to school for fashion design. What drew you to this specific medium of design?
Alex & Jesse’s Wedding Dreamcatcher
Growing up, more was less for me. In fact my aunt used to always call me Mr. T. I’ve always had a love for jewelry and the lingering past of precious finds. I wanted to take a new route and set my mind on a
All materials were carefully chosen for the sacred union of two souls - from their loved ones and
bathing suit venture, but deep-rooted passions seem to have a way of creeping up on you. My last year
elements they have a love for. As people that inspire me regularly, this opportunity to create
of design school I started HOWL and it’s always felt right.
something with meaningful materials was an exciting, rewarding and familiar challenge. The oversized dream catcher, suspended by a tipi inspired wooden structure hung 16ft above the couple’s ceremony.
So you recently relocated your studio, how do you feel about the move?
The joy of participating in this was a strong affirmation of what drives my designs. Discovering the
Being closer to the water makes me feel more at ease. I’m inspired by the space and new projects.
nature of creating with material that I am aware of it’s origin, purpose and properties such as the rare stones, crystals, leather and feather-clad dream catcher is my aim. Practicing this for me can translate into any piece of artwork if it contains a thorough representation. Whether the medium is oil on canvas, bronze sculpture, welding jewelry or an abstract installation the message is strong and stands.
TINI COURTNEY I W AS ON A MISSION //
Most impactful trip regarding how you design?
I’ve noticed that you’ve done a lot of custom designs on people’s personal belongings.
Guatemala
What are the most memorable pieces and fun projects you have coming up next? A bicycle, guitar, ipad case, tire swing, several pieces of furniture, shoes. Snowboard and ukulele are
Lake Atitlan in Guatemala lays along the base of an inactive volcano that elevates to 5,000ft. The area still acts as the home ground for several Mayan tribes. Dear friends of mine built a beautiful glass home there on a cliff shoring the lake. The balcony resembling the port of a ship provided a viewing
Jewelry Designer // Artist -
experience that I will never forget and engendered a vision of a country that the culture bestowed on me daily. The aesthetics of this destination matched it’s community’s beauty and values and we even ventured down to an unforgettable surf spot in El Salvador where I stumbled upon sea glass and rocks that I’m still incorporating to this day. My first adventure was to the Jade museum that inspired a series of pieces. As much as I wanted to stay surrounded by Guatemala’s magic, I was extremely eager to get home and get started on that collection. What inspired you to take old treasures and make them new? I was on a mission when I first started making jewelry. Throughout my formative years I held on to a lot of things that were so important to me. I guess I’m a bit sentimental, but who isn’t. People
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began approaching me to rework their old jewelry and create something personal to them from their
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treasures. These are my favorite projects to work on especially seeing their reaction when the piece is finished. How did growing up in a creative atmosphere shape who you are today? My mom inspires me more than anyone. She has the mentality that anything is possible and if you want something done or to have beliefs actualized you have to do it yourself. Aside from making jewelry how else do you express your creativity? Cooking, styling, painting and drawing and anything else I can get my hands on. All of these are in constant rotation and contribute to an archetype that makes me feel balanced. Every aspect of life should be handled uniquely and with love.
the next in line.
Artist + Artisan
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H You’re currently shooting your first festival-ready film as a lead, how’s the experience so far?
If there was a movie made about your life who would you want to play you, and who would be
The film, Red Handed, is a 30 minute short that will be submitted into film festivals all over the nation,
your surfing stunt double?
as well as Europe, in hopes of finishing as a feature. The film itself is by far the most incredible project
I would definitely want Emile Hirsch to play me, he’s one of my favorite actors. For my surfing stunt
I have ever been a part of, and the people involved are some of the most talented individuals I’ve been
double, I would definitely pick Dane Reynolds. He would make me look a lot better than in real life and I
blessed enough to work with. The experience itself has added an immense amount of depth to my
would love him for that.
acting, and I cannot wait to see what kind of doors this will open for me. In ten years where will Sean Herman be? What’s the oddest thing that has happened to you while preparing for a character?
In ten years I hope to be a well known and respected Actor/ Writer/ director, as well as a Professional
I don’t know if anything ‘odd’ came with developing my character, Skip Ames, but what I’ve noticed
Surfer and big time TAVIK Brand ambassador. Loyalty until the End!
is the difficulty of being able to shut it off during the weeks of filming. I had been slowly creating this monster for about 3 months before we started filming, and I had to really get into character in order to make it mine. I am very dedicated to my work and hopefully it’ll show on screen.
SEAN HERMAN ACTOR // Surfer -
yo u h av e to scream a lot over here to be heard //
You’re also a ripping surfer, did growing up on the East Coast hinder or hurt your sliding talents? Growing up where I did was truly a blessing in disguise because it taught me how to be a determined and a hard worker. As a kid, I always thought I was blowing it by not living in California or Hawaii, in regards to professional surfing, but I now realize that growing up next to NYC has made me hungry to succeed. You have to scream a lot louder over here to be heard. You have a comedy series, Coffee and Toast, what’s your favorite cameo/character the show has had? My favorite character on Coffee With Toast is definitely Enrique. He cracks me up every time, and it’s really special when people approach me, quoting things he has said in my skits. Best coffee you’ve ever had? Best Coffee I have ever had was during my first trip to Nicaragua when I was 15. I have never had a cup that good again.
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Describe your favorite east coast surf spot in 5 words, but without giving it awayBig, Cold, Desolate, Unknown, and Scary. Cougars or Jailbait? I am all about the Cougars. I have had 1 in my life so far and it opened my eyes to a whole new world. Are east coast girls really hip, and do you really dig the styles they wear? East Coast girls are definitely hip! I really dig the artsy, band groupie looks that can be seen all over, but especially in Savannah, NYC, and believe it or not, Wilmington NC.
Actor + Surfer
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A When you want to hear new music where would you look? Really, I just go to my friends, through them, and the people I’ve met while playing music I have a large network of influencers. I also check Beatport every morning. Following artists on there puts me on to some good tracks too. ( While I interview him he is attempting to download a new song he had to have for his set that night.)
Where did you “Grow-up” and how do you feel that has affected your work today? Originally I’m from New Zealand, but my dad was in the special forces, so we ended up living all over the world. I think these varied experiences made me who I am today, and my life on the road is just an extension of those experiences. Los Angeles is the city that I’ve called home the longest, its the place I chose to live as an adult.
THEY ALL J UST W ANT THE DROP / /
LA RIOTS You’ve had a good run at festivals and shows. If you could go back or forward in time to join a line up when and who would it be with? I play electronic music, so my shit wouldn’t fit at a cool festival like Woodstock. I’d have to go with something current and say Tomorrowland in Belgium. I’ve been invited to play some similar events, so hopefully I can look forward to playing there soon?
DJ // Producer-
The key to a good song isThe demographic has changed, people seem to be less interested in the song grooving along, they all just want the drop. For me, its an epic breakdown, beats are too easy to make. When you get home from a trip what is the first thing you do? I got get my dog, Nugget. He’s become famous, I named a song after him - “Nugget’s Adventure.” The Rhythm or the blues? Both.
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Do you create more or less while on the road?
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Less. The road is exhausting. I just went Los Angeles to Atlanta, hopped a plane to Tallahasse, got in around 7, went to the gig, got back to my room and couldn’t sleep, had the worst room service, my ears were still ringing from the sound system at the club. Then, I finally got to sleep but with the time change, its like 11 in LA and 2 in FLO. I overslept, supposed to be up at 9, but didn’t get up til 11:30. Took a shower, straight to airport, TAL - ATL - SANTA ANA - had dinner - played at the club, drive to LAX at 4 am, catch a flight at 5 am to Miami, I’ll arrive there, not sleep, get to the club at 7pm, play til 10pm, then back to New Orleans for another gig. Then, REWIND - REPLAY.