Meet The Surfrider Artist, Louise Lecoeur
Posted on
24/04/2026
At BUFF®, our commitment to ocean conservation continues through our partnership with the Surfrider Foundation, bringing together creativity and purpose to protect the world’s oceans and coastlines. This collaboration blends art and activism, turning BUFF® products into a canvas to celebrate the beauty and movement of the sea.
French artist Louise Lecoeur brings her vibrant artistic universe to this collection. Inspired by the raw energy of the Basque coast, her work captures bodies in motion through bold colors and fluid forms, reflecting the deep connection between people, nature and the ocean.
Tell us a bit more about yourself and your journey as an artist?
I am originally from the Basque coast and an architect by trade. I first learned to draw light and shadow in charcoal before beginning to translate everything into facets of color and never grew tired of it. My work is deeply influenced by the movement of the ocean and the diversity of bodies. From a distance, my paintings can evoke abstract mosaics, but when you get closer, the shapes come to life in the colored facets.
Where do you draw inspiration from? - or can you tell us a bit about the story behind your design.
All the designs are largely inspired by the atmosphere, landscapes and adventures experienced on the Basque coast. The collection designed for BUFF® was imagined one afternoon at the Côte des Basques. I was perched above the beach, watching the surfers. I love this moment when they wait, super calm… and suddenly, everything comes alive as soon as a wave arrives; and this choreography that repeats itself endlessly.
Can you take us through the steps you use when creating a piece of art?
I start by sketching the shadows and lights on the movements of my characters, then I apply some nuances that delineates the shapes and muscles. Then comes the composition: I cut, I paste, I color-in; it’s a very intuitive approach. Finally, I apply my curated color palette that always includes lots of sun and optimism.
How do you see the connection between your art and the ocean/environment?
The ocean is an infinite source of inspiration, with its perpetual movement, its changing colors, its reflections. By zooming in on a wave, we discover an infinity of nuances, almost geometric plays of shadows and lights.
What are your favorite outdoor activities? and why?
Swimming. I find being in the water deeply soothing and it helps me refocus. No matter the season, I will keep on diving-in in my swimsuit, even in the middle of winter. It’s a time when I completely disconnect.
What does "Live more Now” mean for you? and how do you Live More Now every day?
For me, “Live More Now” means making the most of the little moments. Like not missing a sunset, jumping in the water whenever you feel like it, taking the time to be aware for your surroundings. It’s simple, but it makes all the difference.
Tell us about 3 things about you that most people may not know?
1. I dream of being as good at surfing as the characters I paint.
2. To faithfully depict bodies in motion, I often use myself as a model… which results in some pretty comical scenes.
3. I have a very serious passion for reggaeton