The Portrait Series
A portrait, carved to be kept
Hand-carved by Ruben Aira Jr. from retired surfboards, for the people you want to hold onto.
How it began
Twelve years, two portraits
In 2014, Ruben carved Serene, a portrait of Sonya, before he ever told her he loved her.
Twelve years later, Sonya's 93-year-old mother asked him to carve hers. Nani is the first commission in the Portrait Series.
Hindi grandmother
Hawaiian beautiful
Hawaiian beautiful
Choose your board
Two ways to be carved
Half board
Up to two faces, set among carved flora and fauna.
From $5,000 Reserve with $500Full board
A family portrait, with each member composed across the full board.
From $10,000 Reserve with $1,000How it works
From request to delivery
- Send a request with your board, the occasion and its date.
- We confirm Ruben's availability for your date. A deposit is accepted only once it's confirmed.
- Reserve your date. We send a secure invoice for your deposit.
- Send your photos: your best photo of each person, from three angles. Ruben may ask for more as the carving begins.
- Delivery is planned for one week before your date.
For delivery dates in 2026, the balance is due on completion. For dates in 2027, the balance is paid in monthly installments leading up to your date. Founding dates are limited and offered first to our collectors and friends.
Request a portrait date