Beauty and the beach

There’s no doubt that Andy Royston captures the beauty of the beach every morning. And at dawn, before other people arrive, it is at its best. His artwork is timeless – the waves have been crashing onto the shore here before Fort Lauderdale existed – even before the human race existed.

But turn around from looking at the ocean and the sunrise and its all too evident that the human race has now taken over. Today, you’ll see hotels, traffic, street lights and other utilities. Some of the buildings have their own beauty but some of the utilities are … well … utilitarian, to say the least.

You’ve read Andy’s bio. You know that in addition to being an art photographer he has been a designer for many years. Inspired by the Downtown Development Authority which earlier this year wrapped utility boxes, Andy has combined his design skills and his artwork in a project that can transform and beautify the A1A  for everyone who drives, walks or jogs alongside the beach.

These designs capture the essence of Fort Lauderdale with their combination of stunning photography and the traditional whimsy of the ‘wish you were here’ postcard. These postcards pay tribute to Fort Lauderdale’s rich history as a tourist resort and yet, as the images were all taken on an iPhone and uploaded to social media, also reflects the modern city we have today. Since very few people send actual postcards these days, we have also planned a series of e-cards that visitors can send to their friends free of charge.

The project is currently being considered by the authorities. Will it be approved? Will the necessary funding be available? You’ll be the first to know