John Post is a world-renowned photographer and anyone that has spent any time in the South Bay is familiar with his iconic images of the area.
His family moved to the South Bay in 1961 and while he is prone to extended travels, he always returns to the beaches he introduced to the world with his camera.
John sold his photographs for 16 years in front of Beach Market before opening his gallery in Manhattan Beach. He recently relocated to a new space just across the street from the old gallery.
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John was the driving force behind the Manhattan Beach Centennial Book that was produced for the city’s 100th birthday in 2012 in conjunction with the Manhattan Beach Historical Society. He is currently working on a companion book encompassing the Beach Cities called Our South Bay.
In January 2013, he had total hip replacement surgery and was completely recovered in time for his birthday in April. To celebrate, he took a trip to Catalina and walked all over the island. He’s currently planning his tenth trip to India.
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I sat down with John in the new gallery to get his take on his hometown…..
Q: What do you consider the South Bay’s best kept secret?
A: The best kept secret is the South Bay! Turn off the devices and enjoy it!
Q: In your opinion, what is the most successful community improvement project in recent memory?
A: The exercise equipment installed by the Manhattan Beach 10K Committee on the Greenbelt and 27th Street and the Strand. I think it’s called a Par Course.
Q: Preferred South Bay cultural pastime?
A: Eating all the delicious food from different cultures!
Q: On the Strand, you are….
A: Observing the people, the ocean, the weather and taking pictures. I’m an observer – too many times I see more than I want to.
Q: Your go-to South Bay eatery?
A: Scotty’s in Hermosa and Uncle Bill’s in Manhattan.
Q: Favorite local holiday tradition?
A: The Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks and the 4th of July Ironman in Hermosa.
Q: How would you describe South Bay style?
A: If you’ve lived here less than 8 years, you’re living the trendy life ‘inside the bubble’. If you’ve been here more than 10 years, your style becomes more relaxed and comfortable.
Q: South Bay charity of choice?
A: I support the local arts and other artists..…full-time artists…..real, full-time artists.
Q: You’re enjoying a summer Sunday concert at Polliwog Park while sipping ….
A: I might have some wine but I’m more likely working, taking photos.
Q: What recent South Bay story inspired you?
A: I recently read about Sabina Sandova, Founder of the Free to Be Me Drum Circle. I met her several years ago at an art walk. I didn’t know she had such a storied background. She overcame so much but like a true artist, she had to do what she was meant to do – share music with the world.
Q: Can’t miss local event?
A: The Manhattan 10K and Hometown Fair.
Q: Surf’s up! Long board or short?
A: Both. A long board when you’re feeling classic, a short board to remind you how old you are.
Q: Friends are visiting the South Bay for the first time – where do you take them?
A: Scotty’s for breakfast, a walk on Hermosa Pier, dinner in Manhattan and a sunset walk on the Manhattan Pier – not necessarily in that order – they can be reversed….and a drive to Point Vicente Lighthouse.
Q: Strolling along the shore, you find a genie in a bottle and are granted one specific wish – what South Bay institution, tradition or establishment would you restore?
A: Bring back the elephant rides to the Home Town Fair! If we can’t have a real elephant, we should get one like the animated elephant from the Isle of Nantes. (See video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hytTb-wUWy4)
Q: The South Bay offers an assortment of guilty pleasures. What’s yours?
A: Just being here.
