The surf and art communities in Montauk, New York, and beyond are reeling from the heartbreaking news of the death of Andrew Blauschild, a beloved creative force, surfer, and photographer. Born in the Bronx in 1971, Andrew was a proud sixth-generation New Yorker who embraced his roots while deeply connecting to the natural elements of the ocean. Known for his passion for both surfing and photography, Andrew was a true visionary, merging his love for the waves with his artistic talents to capture stunning imagery that resonated with people around the world. His passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, as tributes pour in from friends, family, and fellow surfers who were touched by his warm spirit, creativity, and devotion to his craft.
Andrew’s journey in life was unique, driven by his dedication to surfing and his desire to capture the essence of the sport through his photography. He was not only an artist but also a surfer who felt a profound connection to the ocean. For Andrew, the waves were more than just a playground; they were a source of inspiration, solace, and personal fulfillment. His ability to translate the raw power and beauty of the ocean into photographs made him a well-respected figure in both the surf and art worlds. His recent feature in The Surfer’s Journal further cemented his reputation as one of the most influential creative figures in the surf community.
Throughout his life, Andrew cultivated close relationships with fellow surfers and artists. One of his closest friends, Joel Tudor, who frequented New York City and the East End, shared Andrew’s passion for surfing and the artistry of board-building. Together, they co-founded Kookbox in the early 2000s, an innovative company that quickly gained recognition for its craftsmanship and creative approach to surfboard production. Kookbox was not just a business; it was a collaborative project that blended the artistry of surfboard shapers with the vision of photographers and creatives like Andrew.
Kookbox became known for producing hand-shaped surfboards crafted by some of the most talented surfers and shapers in the industry, including Bill Shrosbee, Stu Kenson, and Hoy Runnels. These surfboards were not just tools for riding waves; they were works of art, meticulously crafted to reflect the artistry and dedication of those involved. Andrew saw Kookbox as a platform to create something meaningful in the surf world—a way to honor tradition while pushing the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. The company’s success was a testament to Andrew’s vision and the passion he brought to everything he did.
In addition to his work with Kookbox, Andrew’s photography was widely celebrated. He had an innate ability to capture moments that evoked emotion, showcasing the grace, power, and beauty of surfing. His images were often described as more than just photographs; they were stories in still frames, each one telling a tale of the ocean and the people who dedicated their lives to riding its waves. His work appeared in numerous publications and exhibitions, earning him a loyal following among surfers and art enthusiasts alike.
Despite his successes, Andrew remained humble and grounded, always quick to share his knowledge and love for surfing with others. He was known for his warm, approachable personality and his genuine kindness, qualities that endeared him to everyone he met. Whether he was surfing the waves off Montauk or working on his latest photography project, Andrew always made time for his friends and family, many of whom have expressed their deep sadness at his passing.
A heartfelt memorial post on social media encapsulated the feelings of loss shared by those who knew Andrew: “Peace be with you, buddy. We shall miss you terribly, Andrew Blauschild. I’m glad you went surfing with buddies the last time you did that. I’m sorry to learn about your demise. Wish I had one more surfing session with you.” These words reflect the profound impact Andrew had on the lives of those around him, as well as the deep connection he shared with his fellow surfers.
The surf community, in particular, has been hit hard by Andrew’s death. In Montauk, where Andrew spent much of his time, the loss of such a beloved figure has been felt keenly. Friends and fellow surfers have gathered to honor his memory, holding impromptu paddle-outs and sharing stories about the man who brought so much joy to their lives. These gatherings have been both a celebration of Andrew’s life and a way for the community to come together in their grief, finding solace in the bonds they share and the memories they hold dear.
Andrew’s death has also sparked conversations about the importance of mental health and well-being within the surfing community. While Andrew’s cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, his passing has served as a reminder that even those who seem to be living their best lives can sometimes be struggling beneath the surface. Friends and colleagues have expressed their hope that Andrew’s legacy will not only be remembered for his incredible contributions to surfing and photography but also as a catalyst for encouraging open discussions about mental health within the community.
The loss of Andrew Blauschild has left a void that will not easily be filled. However, his legacy lives on through the work he created, the surfboards he helped craft, and the countless lives he touched along the way. His dedication to his craft and his love for the ocean will continue to inspire future generations of surfers and artists. As those who knew him reflect on his life, they do so with gratitude for the time they shared with him and the impact he made on their lives.
In the days and weeks following Andrew’s death, tributes have continued to pour in from across the surf and art communities. People have shared their favorite stories and memories of Andrew, each one highlighting a different aspect of his personality and the ways in which he touched their lives. Whether it was his infectious enthusiasm for surfing, his keen eye for capturing the perfect photograph, or simply his kind and generous spirit, Andrew left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
As the surf community in Montauk and beyond continues to process the loss of such a beloved figure, they are united in their grief and their determination to honor Andrew’s memory in a way that reflects the passion and creativity he brought to everything he did. His legacy as a surfer, photographer, and visionary will continue to resonate long after his passing, serving as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of so many.
Andrew Blauschild’s funeral arrangements are being handled privately by his family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time. However, they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received from the community. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations to organizations that support mental health awareness and surf-related charities, causes that were close to Andrew’s heart.
As the world says goodbye to Andrew Blauschild, his legacy will live on through the photographs he took, the surfboards he helped create, and the memories he left behind. He was a true artist in every sense of the word, someone who saw the world through a unique lens and shared that vision with others. Though his life was tragically cut short, the impact he made will continue to be felt for years to come.
