Launch

Those of you who have followed my blog over the years may know that I've been working on a project for the National Geographic Channel on the Plastiki expedition. Here are the photos of the monumentous launch last week, a big day in the story of a brilliant idea that has taken three years to come to fruition.
Please note these photos are copyright Brittany M. Powell and not to be removed.

November Blue

Oregon perfection everywhere.

Dear and Yonder SF premiere.

What: Art Show to benefit the surf film Dear & Yonder

When: August 7th 7-10pm

Where: Mollusk Surf Shop

Why: Celebrate the release of the new surf film Dear & Yonder
In celebration of the release of Dear & Yonder, Mollusk Surf Shop is proud to feature an group show of artists who have been supportive of Dear & Yonder and reflect the talent and spirit of the women showcased in the film. The dynamic group of artists include Moses Berkson, Thomas Campbell, Tiffany Campbell, Jeff Canham, Andy Davis, Chris Del Moro, Amy Jo Diaz, Chris Duncan, Kyle Field, Laura Flippen, Dave Gardener, Chris Gentile, Evan Hecox, Rich Jacobs, Rachel Kaye, Alex Kopps, Erin Kunkel, Peter McBride, John McCambridge, Geoff McFetridge, Liz Pepin, Lana Porcello, Brittany Powell, Augustus Thompson, Paul Urich, Serena Mitnik-Miller, Dave Muller, Ray Potes, Nathaniel Russell, John Smart, Stefan Simikich, Derek Snodgrass, Johanna St. Clair, Mason St. Peter, Ed Templeton, Spencer Tunik, Tobin Yelland and more. A female duo from San Francisco band Black Bow will perform an acoustic set during the event. The August 7th show is perfect warm up for the events the following afternoon and evening:

Summer love.

Small surf lately.

To ail the slowness of photography work this summer, I got a job teaching surf lessons in Pacifica. Getting paid to be in the ocean is pretty incredible. I was reminded of how difficult it is to learn, of how determined I became to get good at it, to conquer the fear and the frustration and get to the part where I experience the joy of being out there and actually riding waves. So glad I put the work in.

A few weeks ago I finally got my shit together to take my friend up on her offer to teach me to climb at the climbing gym I've belonged to for longer than I can remember. Rock climbing has been one of those things I've longed to learn how to do. I've always been keen on bouldering but anything that's involved any height has left a lump in my throat at the very thought. I'm afraid of heights-on an instinctual level...I have a physical reaction when I'm faced with them. I have to say, once I got going though, that I think I kind of love it. Not in the same way I love the ocean, but maybe I am having the same respect for the challenge. I'm terrible and awkward at it and it scares the crap out of me, but now I want to do it until I no longer feel like that.

Still working on Plastiki for Nat Geo and have had a couple other bits of photography work here and there. Honestly, the industry is suffering greatly right now and no one I know is working that much. It sucks but also feels like an oppurtunity to enjoy my free time, live simply and be outside as much as humanly possible. My photo of chef Bryant Terry is in this month's issue of Yoga Journal.

No matter what people say, the weather has been gorgeous and the sun is definitely present at Ocean Beach, now if only a swell could follow suit.

Sometimes all it takes is getting away. Spent the weekend on the Yuba river in Tahoe National forest in Washington, CA. It reminded me of southwestern VA... perfect and green and full of unlikely characters. Another place to add to my list to come back to alone and with the time to focus on photographing it.

Moving tomorrow. Hard not to see it for what it is. A new chapter...and pretty exciting.

Yesterday was full of surprises. I woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Overwhelmed with packing and cabin fever, I made it to yoga and told myself if it didn't rid me of the foul mood I was in I'd head West. Driving down the coast chasing surf always does it for me. Cheers me up, brings me peace of mind. Whatever I need, I can usually get it from the woods or the ocean. I didn't have high expectations, but when I came upon this spot I was pleasantly surprised to find the SW wrapping almost to perfection. I caught a dozen waves despite the crowded lineup and headed back up the coast happy as a clam.

On my way home I got an invite to camp in Redwood park. Yoga, surf and sleeping in a tent--all in one day. Life is good.

Notice

by Steve Kowit

This evening, the sturdy Levi's
I wore every day for over a year
& which seemed to the end
in perfect condition,
suddenly tore.
How or why I don't know,
but there it was: a big rip at the crotch.
A month ago my friend Nick
walked off a racquetball court,
showered,
got into this street clothes,
& halfway home collapsed & died.
Take heed, you who read this,
& drop to your knees now & again
like the poet Christopher Smart,
& kiss the earth & be joyful,
& make much of your time,
& be kindly to everyone,
even to those who do not deserve it.
For although you may not believe
it will happen,
you too will one day be gone,
I, whose Levi's ripped at the crotch
for no reason,
assure you that such is the case.
Pass it on.