Artist Statement
My work is inspired by the rhythm of the ocean, the beauty of imperfection, and the belief that discarded things can be transformed into something meaningful again.
Having traveled the world and witnessed the breathtaking diversity of ocean environments and marine life firsthand, I carry those experiences into every piece I create. From vibrant coral reefs to sweeping coastlines, the natural beauty I have encountered across the globe is the well I draw from — and the reason I feel compelled to create art that honors and celebrates it.
Working primarily with reclaimed surfboards sourced throughout San Diego, I create mixed-media pieces that merge coastal storytelling with sustainable artistry. Each board carries its own history—marked by saltwater, sunlight, movement, and memory. Rather than hiding that past, I aim to honor it, allowing the character of each surfboard to guide the creative process.
Through stained glass mosaics, resin work, and layered textures, I reimagine materials once destined for landfills into pieces that celebrate both transformation and connection to the sea. Sustainability is at the core of my practice. I intentionally source materials locally and collaborate with small community businesses whenever possible, ensuring that each artwork reflects not only environmental consciousness but also the spirit of the coastal communities that inspire me.
Living in San Diego for more than 25 years has deeply shaped my artistic perspective. The coastline, surf culture, and natural environment continually influence my work and fuel my desire to create art that brings beauty, conversation, and renewed appreciation for the world around us.
The name Redeemed Surfboard Art holds a meaning that is entirely personal to me. While every design I create is rooted in coastal and beach-inspired themes, the word redeemed carries a quiet, secondary significance. My faith in Christ is the foundation of who I am, and the idea that something once broken can be made whole again — that is a truth I have experienced in my own life. The boards and I share that story. The art simply reflects the ocean. The name reflects something deeper.
At its heart, my work is about restoration — of objects, stories, and our relationship with the environment. Every piece is an invitation to see potential where others may see waste and to recognize the beauty that can emerge through renewal.
Bio
Joshua Ducharme is the artist and founder behind Redeemed Surfboard Art, a Coronado, California-based mixed media art brand dedicated to transforming reclaimed surfboards into one-of-a-kind coastal works of art.
A lifelong San Diego resident and surfer, Ducharme combines stained glass mosaics, resin techniques, and layered textures to breathe new life into surfboards once destined for landfills. Each board carries its own history of saltwater, sun, and movement — elements that become an intentional part of the finished piece. All of his designs draw from the ocean, surf culture, and the natural beauty of the Southern California coastline.
Committed to sustainability and community, Ducharme sources used surfboards locally throughout San Diego and partners with small businesses to obtain the glass, resin, and materials used in each creation.
In 2025, Ducharme was awarded First Place in Sculpture at the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival, one of Southern California’s premier juried art festivals. His work was also featured on the front page of The Coronado News, spotlighting his transformation of retired surfboards into meaningful works of art.
His work has been exhibited throughout Southern California, including the Coronado Art & Wine Festival, San Diego ArtWalk at Liberty Station, San Diego ArtWalk Carlsbad, Leucadia ART Walk, Art in the Village Carlsbad, and Art in the Park Imperial Beach.