I love how surfing and diving inspire people to see the world, and that is exactly what my friend, Shea Miller wanted to do with his time since he was so young. It is really incredible to hear about his life experiences in and on the water and how it has shaped who he is today...

Tell me a little bit about yourself
Shea Miller- born and raised in the tropical climate of Southern Florida.  I have lived here my whole life aside from a year in Kauai, HI and a few months in Peru and Costa Rica.  I have travelled all over the world surfing.  Surfing gives me an excuse to see all of these amazing places and to dive!  I work as a Real Estate Agent and a Fire Rescue Lieutenant for Boca Raton.   My childhood was and always has been in the water.   My father Jim and mother Janis have been freediving and lobstering since they were kids so it was a natural progression.  We have been going to Marathon area in the Keys lobstering since before I was born and have continued going ever since.  I used to go every summer with the Sharpes to Walkers Cay in the Bahamas up until I was 15.  Now, I find myself in the Exumas most times. 

What are some of your best memories in the water?
I have so many fond memories of any time actually spent in the water, but I would have to say that spearfishing and lobstering with my family is my favorite.  I can't just pick one story because being in the water with them means the world to me.  Even with my father yelling at me from the boat or my mother yelling at us because we've been trying for the last 2 lobsters to limit out for the 6th day in a row and it's dark out.   Yelling is a common theme. 
 
Why did you want to commission this specific piece?
I chose the Bahamas chart because the Bahamas hold a special place in my heart.  From the earlier days in Walker's to the Exumas trips, they are all great experiences.  I let Carly really let loose on the canvas.  She has an incredible imagination and I wanted to see what she would come up with and it's better than anything I imagined!