Surreal and Alien Beauty Captured by ScubaBC
- Justus Hayes
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Over the past six months or so, my online store, the Lazy River, has undergone a significant transformation in its focus, now narrowing its offerings to highlight the unique and breathtaking beauty of the West Coast of British Columbia. This region, which I have the privilege of calling home, is not just a geographical location for me; it is a source of inspiration and a canvas for my creativity. Living in BC's southwest has allowed me to immerse myself in one of the most stunning corners of the world, a place where the mountains meet the ocean and nature thrives in its most vibrant forms. My family had a cherished tradition of camping every summer on the western shore of Thetis Island, one of the smaller Gulf Islands just north of Saltspring Island. For a curious child like I was, Thetis Island was nothing short of magical, a playground filled with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Is there anything more entrancing to a five year old than a rocky tide pool filled with tiny crabs and wee bullheads? I doubt it.
I spent countless hours snorkeling in the variably-clear waters that surrounded our campsite, where I would marvel at the colorful marine life and ecosystems that flourished beneath the surface. Those formative experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the local marine environment, shaping my understanding of the delicate balance of life in these waters. It was during those idyllic summers that I began to develop a passion for the underwater world and its transition to dry land. This passion is reflected in my design collection, Sandstone, Arbutus and Kelp, which draws inspiration from the rich and diverse natural resources found in this region. Each piece in the collection pays homage to the unique flora and fauna of the West Coast, celebrating the beauty and complexity of the marine and tidal ecosystems that have captivated me since childhood.
In my early twenties, I took a scuba certification course in my home town of Victoria alongside a friend of mine, Eric Nyhof, who worked as a bartender at the time. This experience was transformative; I found myself completely enthralled by the underwater world, a realm that felt both foreign and familiar. The sensation of weightlessness and the tranquility of the ocean were unlike anything I had ever experienced before. Scuba diving opened up a new dimension of exploration for me, allowing me to venture deeper into the underwater landscapes I had only glimpsed while snorkeling. However, as is often the case with pursuits that require significant financial investment, I found it challenging to maintain my diving practice. The costs associated with equipment, travel, and dive trips made it difficult to continue my passion for scuba diving. Much like skiing, which I also love, the expenses began to outweigh my ability to partake regularly.
Recently, while browsing the internet, I stumbled across the YouTube channel, ScubaBC. Instantly, I was transported back to the exhilarating days of my diving course and the awe I felt exploring the depths of the ocean. Their content is a delightful mix of short and long-form videos, showcasing the surreal and alien beauty of our underwater seascapes. Each video captures the essence of the marine life that thrives in British Columbia's waters. I highly recommend diving into their content; it serves not only as a visual feast but also as a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that exists just below the surface. Whether you are an experienced diver or someone who simply appreciates the wonders of nature, ScubaBC offers a glimpse into a world that is both captivating and essential to our planet's health.