Looking back on 25 years of Social Butterfly Designs, there many moments that shaped my journey, but few compare to the thrill of 2010—when I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with Bruce Brown Films and The Endless Summer through a licensing agreement.
For a lifelong admirer of great design and iconic imagery, working with The Endless Summer was very exciting for me. The legendary 1966 surf documentary, with its striking poster art by John Van Hamersveld, captured the spirit of adventure, freedom, and endless possibility which has stood the test of time. Through my special licensing agreement, I was able to create new designs using the original artwork, reimagining elements of that classic, sun-soaked aesthetic in a fresh way.
The process was both exciting and humbling. The enormity of working with such a beloved piece of surf culture wasn’t lost on me. I wanted to honor its legacy while incorporating my own artistic touch. Seeing those designs come to life—and knowing they resonated with fellow Endless Summer fans—was definitely a highlight for me at what was then the 10 year mark of my business.
Now, looking back, I realize how much this project reinforced what I love most about design: its ability to connect people, evoke nostalgia, and tell a story. Whether it’s a handwritten note, a thoughtfully crafted illustration, or a piece of history given a new life, creativity has the power to bring us all together.
This is a set of postcards I created for the line, which were sold at the Huntington Beach Surf Museum
This was just one wave in my creative journey, but it’s one I’ll always be grateful I got to ride.
Do you remember the first time you saw The Endless Summer? I’d love to hear your memories in the comments!