Stories from the Eddie: Jack Soren

Meet Jack Soren, the artist behind the 2025/26 Rip Curl Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational artwork.

The latest instalment of our Stories From The Eddie series delves into the inspiration behind year’s iconic event poster, seen on windows and t-shirts across Hawai‘i and around the world.

Visiting him at home in his studio, Jack opened up about his art, upbringing, and his deep connection with the historic big wave event.

Born and raised in Lā‘ie, Jack Soren comes from a family rooted for generations on O‘ahu’s North Shore. Surfing and the ocean shaped his upbringing, along with the phrase “Eddie Would Go,” which was woven into his everyday life.

Before Jack was born, his father, Henry Soren, served as a lifeguard at Waimea Bay alongside Eddie Aikau. Jack grew up hearing stories of long days at the bay, where his father and Eddie saved countless lives together. After his father passed away when Jack was 15, those memories became even more meaningful. 

Creativity runs just as deeply in his family lineage. Jack’s father was not only a lifeguard but also a jeweller, crafting intricate Hawaiian heritage pieces from gold. He inspired Jack’s own artistic journey, which began at young age with graffiti and later evolved into large-scale murals.

Culture and ancestry are central to Jack’s work. Guided by the mantra, “Why do double the work when your kūpuna have done the work before you,” he drew on his father’s craft when creating the 2025/26 Eddie artwork. This influence comes through in the bold gold frame surrounding the piece, as well as in his use of colours that reflect the mana, or life force, of Hawaiʻi’s waves. He further wove in gold, leis, and traditional patterns to honour Eddie and the generations who came before.

The result is a timeless piece that honours Eddie’s legacy and Jack’s own family history and personal connection to the hallowed event. Blending heritage with deep reverence, he has created a work destined to endure for years to come.

We hope you enjoy Episode 3 of Stories From The Eddie, featuring the talented Jack Soren.