Jeffreys Bay icon dies surfing the waves that inspired his art

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The Jeffreys Bay community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Stephen Bibb, a cherished local artist and surfer, who died on Friday morning while surfing – an act that encapsulated his deep bond with the ocean and the creative spirit it gave him.

Stephen Bibb wasn’t just a painter; he was a visual poet of the sea, a storyteller whose brush captured the soul of surf culture and the transformative power of water.

His vibrant artworks – many depicting the iconic Supertubes – made him a household name in J-Bay and far beyond.

A life immersed in the ocean

Bibb lived only a few blocks from the shoreline, his studio forever infused with the scent of sea spray and the soundtrack of waves breaking.

His daily surf sessions were sacred, shaping both his life and artistic vision.

Works like “Ocean Dreams” and “Carpark Section JBay” became beloved local landmarks in paint – capturing moments of serenity and surf stoke with vivid, flowing energy.

From personal struggles to creative awakening

His art was born from personal darkness. Bibb often spoke of a period in his life marked by grief and depression.

A life-altering moment occurred during a surf session when a pod of dolphins surrounded him. He described the experience as a “ball of glowing white energy” rising within him – an awakening that catalysed his spiritual and artistic rebirth.

From that moment forward, dolphins became a recurring symbol in his work – representing joy, healing, and connection.

A legacy in colour, canvas and community

Bibb’s style was unmistakable: glowing line-ups, barreling waves, retro kombis, and soulful ocean moments.

His work, once sold in local surf shops and co-ops, gained international popularity through platforms like Displate, making his art accessible to a global audience.

Mediums ranged from oils and acrylics to digital art and etched metal. Yet no matter the format, each piece carried his unmistakable reverence for the sea.

A generous heart

Bibb wasn’t just a painter – he was a mentor, a community supporter, and a quiet force of good. He donated art to anti-crime initiatives, worked with local schools and surf clubs, and inspired countless young artists who found courage in his story.

Locals remember him as gentle, humble, and always smiling – especially when the swell was up.

A farewell fitting of his spirit

Bibb passed away doing what he loved most: surfing the waves that gave him life and voice.

Though his death is a heartbreaking loss, many feel peace knowing he left this world embraced by the ocean that so deeply shaped him.

He is survived by his family, friends, fellow surfers, and an international community of art lovers who saw the sea through his eyes.Plans are underway for a community paddle-out ceremony and a memorial exhibition of his work in Jeffreys Bay.