In Waves: how AJ Dungo brought memory and surf history together
The autobiographical graphic memoir alternates personal recollections with the history of surfing.
Before its animated adaptation, In Waves began as AJ Dungo’s autobiographical graphic memoir. In an interview with publisher Nobrow, Dungo explains how the book grew from grief for his partner Kristen and memories of their relationship and shared love of surfing.
The book interweaves two threads: personal memories use greens and blues, while surf history appears in browns and oranges. The shifting palette helps distinguish the narrative layers.
Dungo also recalled an art-school project about surfing pioneer Tom Blake that preceded the book. The publisher helped bring that research together with a more personal story.
For viewers of the animated film, this offers an entry into the source book. Its colors and structure do not by themselves establish that the film uses the same devices.
