The Island View

USA | Monday, 24 June 2013 | Views [342] | View Smaller Image

Nico, Jason, and Steven. Standing beside Isla Vista's iconic agave stalks, these men exist in a time capsule culture blending humans and nature. Most days drift along consumed by an ocean-minded notion that transcends the conventional expectations of the outside world. The illuminated oil rig resting behind them is a compelling reminder of the areas ongoing struggle for balance with the land and its resources.

In the 18th century this stretch of coastline was home to the largest population of native Chumash in California. Fast forward over two and a half centuries and the flocks of students of the University of California, Santa Barbara help make this eccentric beach town one of the highest density populations anywhere in the nation. A similar and fitting testament to the beauty of the time and place of the Island View.

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These days it's called the Jailhouse. Where the real locals gather for a sense of seclusion and expression, this amalgamation of cement is all that remains of a '70's beach shack grill. The fresh stench of rising spray paint lingering in the air makes their presence easily detectable from the dirt trail above. These cement walls are an everlasting template continually erased and overlain as if to mirror the sand below that is paved from the daily wash of waves and tides.

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The Island View

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