Nostalgic ‘90s lookback at Ipswich’s surfing subculture
04 December 2023
An iconic art exhibition documenting Ipswich’s ‘90s surfing subculture is being revisited for its 30th anniversary at the Ipswich Community Gallery.
‘IPPY DROPS IN … and Rips’ was the work of videographer Kate Ellovee (nee Versace) and Doug Spowart, an innovative documentation of the vibrant surf subculture in the city of Ipswich, located 100 kilometres from the nearest surf break.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said the work of Ellovee and Spowart captured a remarkable moment in time for Ipswich’s unique subcultures.
“The 1960s and 1970s saw surfing as a countercultural escape, a way to 'drop-out' from the post-war conversation,” Cr Fechner said.
“Fast forward to the 1990s, Kate and Doug playfully juxtaposed Ipswich residents leading seemingly double lives, using the aesthetics of classic surfing movies and music videos.
“Through the lens of video and photography, they documented and humorously celebrated the successful survival of inland surfers, right here in Ipswich.
“The result was a trailblazing exhibition, ‘IPPY DROPS IN … and Rips’. Now, 30 years on, this exhibition has been reimagined and brought back to the very building where it all began.
“Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural evolution of Ipswich's surf scene and experience the enduring creativity of Ellovee and Spowart, in this quirky and fascinating exhibition.”
To add an exciting contemporary twist to this celebration, Ipswich Art Gallery is hosting a 'Surfboard Art Design' competition, inviting residents of Queensland to channel their inner artists and contribute to the legacy of Ipswich's surf scene.
During the exhibition period, gallery visitors are encouraged to draw their own personalized surfboard designs, and one lucky winner will bring their creation to life on their very own surfboard, sponsored by board shaper Russell Clifford and Ipswich Art Gallery.
The exhibition opens on Saturday 2 December and runs until Friday 22 December. Ipswich Community Gallery is open daily from 10am to 4pm, in d’Arcy Doyle Place.