Ki’i Boards art is making quite an impression in the world of fine art – each exquisite piece not only unique in that it is extraordinarily beautiful and tells its own story; each piece is also representative of the huge impact made environmentally
Ki’i Boards was founded in 2009 by two good friends and artists, Tara Berger and Jamie Perez, who not only discovered a way to combine their passion for art with their love for the ocean – but also while being able to preserve the precious environment. And with any hope, said Berger, while sending a message that encourages others to want to follow suit.
The creation of Ki’i Boards came about after Berger was approached by a woman looking for a one-of-a-kind design on a reclaimed surfboard for her lavish garden; it was during the research process when the discovery was made that surfboards were not biodegradable and were extremely harmful to the environment. Berger discussed with Perez the creation of Ki’i Boards and there was no question it was the right path for them; the fact that the boards were an eco-save was just an added bonus.
Berger and Perez’s 10-year friendship was no doubt a benefit of Ki’i Boards’ successful beginning, and even though the two artists have decided to move in separate directions, both very much focus on recycling and conservation with Ki’i Boards continuing to make huge waves in the art world – only now with Berger as the driving force behind the unique but exquisite Ki’i art.
While Perez chases her other dream pursuing a teaching credential, Berger continues following hers with Ki’i Boards art; Berger continues to exhibit the remaining art she and Perez created together as well as her many new designs – continuing to build on her dreams while leaving her own footprint in the art world. It is apparent Berger’s talents know no boundaries as she creates all types of art from exquisite masks to the extension of the board art beyond surfboards to include snowboards and skateboards – each board an inimitable canvas with all of the dents, dings and footprints – an enhancement to its already unique story. Berger said she sometimes doesn’t know what the design will be until she sees the board, but it’s definitely very rewarding for her.
What’s different about Ki’I Boards art is that it just doesn’t look good on the wall, said Berger, “Ki’i Boards art are all original, one-of-a-kind authentic designs.” Berger said creates a variety including art that is specific to the individual be it the art collector, fine hotel, museum, corporation, parrent or child – even the board professional looking for a way to turn a memory into fine art. Rather than polute landfill and harm the environment or let something so valuable collect dust, people can feel good about saving the environment and create fine art specific to their lifestyle or as a gift for someone they love. Berger said she discounts custom orders with the donated canvas (board); the ideas may be endless but the art – and story – last a lifetime.
Berger said she’s also very involved in a variety of charity organizations although she’s had to start a waiting list for donations as Ki’i Boards has become a popular request. The art is indeed exquisite, “It’s definitely not your typical sunset scenery that one might expect with Ki’i Boards art,” said Berger, “It’s art that you can’t just get anywhere.”
Berger’s conservation efforts are honorable and extend into every aspect of her life, from the paint and sealers used with the recycled materials in her art work to attempting better recycle practices in her personal life to the examples set in her teaching world with the children. Berger said she hopes that by setting these examples it will show the importance of conservation and preservation and it will inspire others to follow suit.
Based in Los Angeles, Berger’s background include that of an art director, assistant producer and designer; and a graphic design business she hasn't yet let go of where she’s created websites, art and does various photography; she also continues her career teaching youth at the Temple Akiba and works at the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. In fact, that is where she recently won the Sara and Simha Lainer award for her work as an art specialist.
Berger’s talents are vast and continue to lead her in directions that will not only further opportunities but also allow for the expansion of her many talents. One of Berger’s next art shows will feature one of her unique snowboard art pieces for an upcoming ipop show to be held at the Zimmer Children’s Museum from May 3 to June 8, 2012. It is Berger's hope to someday own her own gallery and continue with her dreams to make Ki’i Boards a success while doing what she loves – creating art, teaching art, enjoying the ocean and preserving the precious earth – hoping others want to help find their own way to conserve and preserve.
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Additional art and donation information:
For more information on Ki’i Boards fine art or the Zimmer Children’s Museum ipop show, contact Tara Berger via their website at www.kiiboards.com ; or visit or like them on Facebook, or check out their website calendar for future shows and events. Although most of the Ki’i Boards art can range between $2,500 to $3,500, the prices for some of the boards pictured with this article are priced between $1,000 to $1,250. For more information, contact Tara Berger at www.kiiboards.com. For donations of reclaimed boards or for additional information on Ki’I Boards art contact Tara Berger at www.kiiboards.com.
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