backside bartholomew

book preface

The purpose for my book is to make beginner surfers ( humorously ) aware of the unwritten things you do and do not do in the sport of surfing. All with the help of a ficticious character I created named Backside Bartholomew. ( Backside Bart for short ) With experience, all who venture out to surf ocean waves will eventually get to know them one way or another. It comes with the territory. Having taken the time to read this little book will give the reader a head start on what could possibly take years to figure out!

about the author

I, Michael Birchall, graduated from Flagler College with a BA in Commercial Art. My first graphic design job was at Folio Weekly in Jacksonville. Then I moved to Atlanta and took a job at Creative Loafing. Both jobs were editorial layout. Then I moved back to St. Augustine and took a job at software company doing multimedia interface design. After that, I started working for my mentor, Kurtis Loftus. Thats where I figured out what I wanted to do. Kurtis taught me everything about running a boutique studio. I will forever be grateful to him for that.

After working for Kurtis for 3 years, I started an agency called Troika Studio that lasted for 21 years. During that time I also taught graphic design at Flagler College for 8 years, I also taught graphic design at Florida School of the Arts for 2 years and was a nightclub DJ ( now retired ). I love doing graphic design and the relationships it fosters. I am grateful for the ability to help people.

I love my family. I have two boys, Kai 19 and Von 15 and my partner in crime Lindsey, who somehow keeps us all centered. My hobbies are motocross, surfing, snowboarding, wakeboarding, mountain biking and running. I love the outdoors and being active.

Thank you for your interest in my new book. I hope you at least get a few laughs…..shaka…Michael