Surfing Madonna, Mosaic artwork near Moonlight Beach, Encinitas, United States
Surfing Madonna is a mosaic artwork depicting the Virgin of Guadalupe riding a surfboard with the message Save the Ocean displayed prominently. The piece uses colored glass and stone to create an intricate composition that measures about 10 feet on each side and sits in a dedicated park space.
The artwork was initially installed secretly by Mark Patterson and Bob Nichols beneath a railroad bridge in 2011 before being removed and relocated to Surfing Madonna Park. This installation sparked a broader movement centered on ocean protection that the creators have continued to develop.
The artwork draws together surfing culture and religious imagery, creating a fusion that resonates with the coastal community's values and environmental concerns. This blend reflects how local people view their relationship with the ocean as something worthy of spiritual reverence.
The mosaic is freely accessible in a dedicated park space alongside North Coast Highway and can be viewed during daylight hours without entrance fees. Its location near Moonlight Beach makes it easy to combine with a beach visit, especially on clear days.
The artists dressed as construction workers during the secret initial installation to avoid suspicion while mounting the work beneath the railroad bridge. This resourceful approach revealed their determination to deliver the environmental message despite legal obstacles.
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