Mike Nelson, the godfather of NY surf photography, has been documenting almost every swell since 1991, when his mother bought him a Minolta Weathermatic waterproof 35mm film camera. Whenever there was a swell, Mike was on it. Neither rain, nor sleet nor snow could keep him from photographing some of the best sessions in New York Surf History.

North of Nowhere is a collection of images documenting New York and the northeast surfing scene. It’s nostalgic but also eye opening look at the evolution of this once backwater surf scene. From the Lido Surf & Sport reign, to Ryan Carlson’s Martin Potter like impact on the local surfing performances, to tragedies such as 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy, and the incredible peak moments and long past swells. It was edited and co written by the former editor of Eastern Surf Magazine, Matt Pruett, a fitting partner to the making of this book. The two have created a time capsule of a special era and is a perfect documentary on New York Surfing.

We were lucky enough to have Mike Nelson, Matt Pruett and Balaram stack on hand at Pilgrim Surf & Supply in Brooklyn to discuss the book, the influences, and the impact that these photos have had on our community. It was recorded in front of a live audience and for anyone who calls themselves a New York Local, you don’t want to miss out on this conversation.

A special thanks to Christ Gentile and the Pilgrim crew for hosting us.

You can find North of Nowhere at www.northofnowherebook.com

The Swell Season Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network

Music
Song: Web in Front
Artist: Archers of Loaf
Album: Icky Mettle (Deluxe Reissue)