Chovy Art is the work of San Diego-based artist Matt Hayward—a self-taught painter known for bold, ocean-inspired pieces and custom artwork rooted in real-life experience on the water.

What started as painting surfboards and side projects turned into a full-time pursuit after people began connecting with the work and wanting it on their own walls. Since then, Chovy Art has grown organically through word of mouth, collectors, and a strong presence in the fishing and coastal community.

The style is raw, layered, and instantly recognizable—often referred to as the “Chovy Style.” Using acrylic paint, spray paint, and paint pens, each piece is built by hand with a focus on movement, texture, and personality. A lot of the inspiration comes from time spent fishing and surfing along the California coast.

Chovy Art offers original paintings, prints, and fully custom canvas work. Whether it’s a personal commission, a large statement piece, or a collaboration, every project is approached with the same mindset: make something that actually means something to the person it’s for.

No templates, no shortcuts—just real artwork, made from scratch.