Meet Joshua Martin

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joshua Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joshua, what do you want people to remember about you?
I’d like to feel like I’ve built upon a legacy my father started. My dad changed course from his father’s legacy. One that was rooted in finances, principles and business. Nothing wrong with that but it was a pretty one dimensional deal. He pursued his passions at the risk of disappointing his parents and their generation. He encouraged me to pursue my passions. I believe each of us is born with unique gifts and talents. My mom and dad recognized those gifts and talents in me. In spite of the ideas they may have had for my path in life they encouraged me to pursue my passions. That path has included some wrong turns but those side routes have shaped who I am today. I love where I am at, what I do and who I am. I am a parent my self. Actually a grand parent now. I’ve tried to pass on what my dad passed to me. My wife and I have encouraged both our daughters to dive into their gifts and talents. It’s awesome to see them thriving in what they are so good at. The stuff I create with my hands may stick around for people to enjoy for a while but nothing lasts like good values, love and encouragement when given to others. Especially when it’s given to children who pass it on to their children who pass it on to theirs and so it goes on and on.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I primarily build surfcraft but it doesn’t stop there. I recycle much of the waste produced while making surfboards. I work with wood, foam, resin, clay and metal. I’m generally not afraid to build whatever the dream is. My dad fostered in me the idea that our senses of sight and touch are very good. So good that they are as good or better than what a machine can produce. For the craftsman that is a liberating thing. What I make is special. It’s unique to me and my hands. You can’t replicate that with a machine.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d make them a home cooked meal. We’d visit in my home. We might head into my backyard garden. See what’s growing right now. What animals are out and about. If I still had a boat I might take them a few miles out off the coast, shut the motor off and just wait. It’s amazing what goes on out there when you just become part of it. The Pacific Ocean is an incredible wilderness right here in our backyard or maybe I should say front yard.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My folks

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Image Credits
@sagephotos_ (Sage Warren) @elliotstudio (Elliot Ross)