Over the stretch of an almost two-week stairway, the first-ever Vans Pipe Masters, (formerly licensed to the World Surfing League),  introduced a level of competition and tenacity for ‘the catch of the wave’ that traditionally positions itself around former standards, such as priority. In inaugural fashion, this new approach mandated a much more heightened and focused competitive spirit than I believe we’ve allowed our senses to fully understand. We witnessed the intensity of our men’s heat, (45 minutes of standing potential), and equally, wonderfully, 45 minutes of contest confirmation for women. What I saw, more clearly amidst the women, was a concerted need – operative terminology, need – to produce more of an uptick in competition, focus and restlessness. Potentially, more indefinitely, we have been witness to the transition of Women’s Surf, to the level of athleticism that it needs to be consistently represented and portrayed as.

(PHOTO CRED: Tracks 2022, Molly Picklum carried into winner’s chair and welcome).

What was, included a layout that – respectfully – allowed for a tempered, slightly different level of competitiveness each day and each heat. With this particular shift, what transpired was a pivot in focus on the very truth: every day is a new day; who and how you arrive at each set matters, and can only be fueled by the previous experience, not defined. Instances of high power-performance, pummeled through each day, emerging suddenly and starkly - in contrast and expression – as the day’s weather patterns and swell.

As an excitedly engaged viewer, and lover and protector of the ocean, witnessing this management and interaction of how this format-shift beckoned its participants to approach, was more than interesting – it introduced a new stage in which we, (as a sports-watching community), would view and value the sport of surf, accompanied by women. The manifestation of this industry-shift, delegated a different recall of a sport we thought we knew – formerly embraced amongst women as a more polite dance with competition and competitive heat. Now, with the presentation of the new format – and the interaction thereof – we have been witness to the true athlete in the female surfer.

We, I believe, have been made aware of the indefinite shift – not solely in event-format – yet, in how we perceive and speak on / commentate on the woman surfer. This is now the jump-off point – young Molly, congratulations. Mr. Stack, wonderful to see.

Mahalo in Aloha,

Linds

With focus and fire towards the right things, you are unstoppable.

Evidence of my skill level left a trail of paintings hung on walls; intricate and stylish sketches, whose strokes rivaled both classic and modern era’s acclaimed. I was made aware that I- this long professed artist- was capable of committing concept to visual; visual to finished product. And yet, amid exhibit A through Z, I could not recall nor point to any work from recent months of creativity come to life.

Where had I, the artist, gone? And why hadn’t I given time to one of my loves?

It could be and has been one of the hardest things to confront; this, being the mere fact that no one else, no other force, could take the blame for my absence of creating in recent months. There was and has been no one to blame for this lack of productivity. Could time be the reason? Perhaps I could heap every reason on the limited amount I’ve been given with the recent swell in both my professional and personal lives. But, I’d like to think we are wise and responsible enough to make time for what we love.

I’ve often found that the mistake we blindly or pridefully make is not confronting the real reason we encounter an issue- and, as a result, we continue missing any real ability to solve the problem. When the power to settle into self, (a topic that we will explore later this month), rests upon our ability to create, there’s not a thing that should stand in our way.

Dire Dawa, Ethiopia: Ethiopia skater catching some air above two retired train cars at an old railway station. (PHOTO: www.ethiopiaskate.com)

And so, I write to you, another monologue and soliloquy of confessions, putting into practice what I preach.

“Be accountable for the creative calling you’ve been given. How else will we see our gifts move, if we ourselves do not?”

A movement laced with order and focus is the only ‘moving’ I can be a part of. Senseless movement is just as unproductive as no movement at all. Scoffing at order and the need to institutionalize its power to focus our talents, must be an integral part of our creative trajectory. Without it, the dream remains only an idea, never conceptualized or realized.

In the way of the artist is often times our inability to infuse order into our creative goals. For there to be change- the productive way- the artist must incorporate discipline, which then provides focus. Focus will fine-tune the reasons you have the gift in the first place.

Focus, (on the right elements), with the fire to create, is unstoppable.

If you’ve experienced one of his photographs – experience, being the optimal word-choice - you’re familiar with the utopia-like trajectory your head begins to spin in: an escapade across two continents; five varying nations, along with three small villages, have now reached the top of your bucket list…

Very problematic.

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

And ever since Chris made the switch at age 19 to give this visual, “I-think-I’ll-tell-a-story,” a go, his work has been inciting all kinds of dream-chasing and sick-travelling; breeding all sorts of adventure-bending, like that of his epic imagery gives way to.

It appears as though a slice of Heaven is closer than we think, ladies and gents.

CreativeWave Movement took a moment to understand a little bit more deeply why Chris Burkard has measured up to the unthinkably sound task of giving life through imagery. Here is our conversation:

CreativeWave Movement: There’s an intangible piece that you see in your photos, Chris: it’s life-breathing and life-giving. It’s an element that I know comes only from the perspective and personal experience of the one communicating through the lens. Describe to me what your photographic philosophy is.

Chris Burkard: My philosophy when approaching photography is based around fulfilling the desire to always be exploring. The camera is simply a vessel that I use to express my love for the outdoors and adventure. If one were to look at my work, I think that they would be able to see a pattern in how I’ve captured people experiencing the raw environments that our world has to offer. It’s this coupling of nature and humanity that I think is so amazing, and I do my best to express that exploratory spirit in all of my projects.

CWM: I can see that – and I can tell that many others do, as well. I’ve always known that the ability to communicate such a powerful message – without words – is such an amazing gift. Had you always sensed that this would be your life’s work? If not, what urged the career shift?

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

CB: Photography is a tough industry to set foot in; and, like everyone else, I started my career by working long hours. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and that’s what made me make that leap when I was 19. I felt like I owed it to myself to at least give it a shot. At the time, I was working a job I hated, I told myself I’d give it 4 years of really pursuing it and reevaluate after those 4 years. I drove for hours to do unpaid internships and spent a lot of time sleeping and living in my car. There were definitely difficulties, but I stuck through it and learned as much as I could at those internships.

CWM: Wow - I don’t think anyone would know that about your story. But, I must confess, many of us – if not, most of us – can relate to it…..in preparation for something great. I’d like to think we are each ambassadors of something greater than ourselves. Although we may not understand it fully, what do you think is a greater reason- beyond yourself - you’ve been given the gift of photography and travel?

CB: One of the main reasons why I shoot what I do is to inspire people to get out and explore Mother Nature. I’ve always been so inspired by nature. It was first the ocean, and then the vast landscapes of places like Yosemite, Switzerland and Iceland. Even though I often shoot in faraway places, my goal is to create images that inspire the everyday person to go on adventures and to feel like it is accessible to [them]. Accessibility is key to making lasting and epic photos.

CWM: Yes it is…

CB: It’s about making people connect and to be honest, I think that so much of what we see is just way out of reach for most people.

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

CWM: It is, and many times, the thought is to live through the image, which is what you provide as an artist. And as an artist and creative mind myself, it’s interesting how we do find ourselves craving for deeper ways in which our talents can better serve the world around us. Have you found yourself at that juncture in life; and if so, what is your constant hope with each moment captured?

CB: I am always looking to inspire the younger generation. Recently, an illustrator friend of mine came to me with this idea: to create a children’s book based on the ideals of always exploring and seeking out something beautiful and new. We took pictures from my portfolio as inspiration for the artwork, which was such a tangible way for me to be involved in such a cool project. The Boy Who Spoke to Earth is a culmination of hard work. Having two sons of my own, I wanted this book to share the love I have for the outdoors with them; in a way that they would understand and appreciate.

CWM: I bet they loved that – how incredible.

CB: The cool thing is that my sons aren’t the only ones who are able to benefit from that book, but kids everywhere will hopefully see it and a creative fire will be lit inside them to go out and see what nature has to offer. I think this book was sort of one of those opportunities to serve others a bit more, as well as just [instilling] a new way to inspire people and a younger generation.

CWM: It was, and I sense that there is more of that for you to come in the future. Being the creator of CreativeWave Movement, I am completely convinced that we each have a place in empowering one another. What’s your perspective on the power that our talents have in empowering and inspiring others?

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

CB: I completely agree with you.

CWM: Yeah, exactly – right?

CB: There’s somewhat of a responsibility I feel we have to share what we create with others.

CWM: Yes.

CB: I’m a huge proponent of sharing content for the sole purpose of one person seeing it and deciding that they’ll live their life a bit differently. And hopefully, that decision will help fill a void with a joy.

CWM: Yes, and again, it is clear that your work is serving in that way. I feel like, with every photograph you’ve taken, I see a very clear joy in adventuring. Whether through the clarity in color or range of composition – you can just see it. What lessons have you learned through adventuring? Ones that may even be carried to the next generation.

CB: Travelling the world has definitely given me my fair share of lessons. With each new adventure, I’ve learned something new.

CWM: Makes sense.

CB: I’d have to say – the preparation that goes into each trip is so incredibly vital; but being flexible is most important.

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

CWM: That’s GOOD – good message right there.

CB: So many times, I go to never-before surfed coastlines in search [of] waves. I plan [the] entire excursion based off a picture; but sometimes, you get there, and there’s nothing!

CWM: Wow!

CB: It’s completely flat. It’s in those moments that you really have to re-evaluate a situation and make the best out of it by doing something that you wouldn’t have tried before.

CWM: Absolutely. Redirecting perspective: there’s so much to that. Switching gears a bit: I want to know what your future hope for your photography and travel is. Do you have any thoughts on where you hope both to be?

CB: Honestly, I hope to continue to be able to travel and inspire others to want to see the world. There are so many places on this earth I haven’t been able to explore; even if the rest of my life was dedicated to travelling, I don’t think I’ll be able to see them all. But, I’m okay with that. More for the future generations to discover!

CWM: How about that!

CB: I think the key is that I want to inspire people to go to these wild places. To seek out the unknown, and ultimately not be afraid of a little mystery or of being a bit uncomfortable …. or maybe a lot.

(PHOTO: Chris Burkard)

To follow Chris on his endless discovery of adventure, visit his Instagram + Facebook + YouTube

–CWM–

Freeskier, Theo van Zyl, profiled on Searching for Sero. (PHOTO: John Rathwell, for www.searchingforsero.com)

There’s a peaceful tone to his speech; an ease in the way he speaks of remaining positive. It’s an unassuming, effortless way in which he prevails through each question.  And yet, no one would ever know that John Rathwell lost his father just months prior to our conversation. It is an unnerving revelation; one that causes you to check all of your very mild and rather light complaints at the door. And officially, they’ve all been checked.

“Two days after Dad passed away, I had no clue what it was, but I knew I had to do something,” the Canadian-based creative recalls.

Galvanizing strength and perseverance as he did- in the manner in which he did- sets your head in a tailspin. His knee-jerk response to a tragedy was to gain perspective- and where, of all places? In the grand expanse of the outdoors.

Gen Gagnon, finding sero as she mountain bikes Gatineau’s rugged terrain. (PHOTO: John Rathwell for www.searchingforsero.com.)

One decisive move to get outside and bike-ride along Ottaws’s tricky terrain, provided a level of light and perspective he didn’t know he’d find, but found. The determined photographer from Ontario was coming to terms with a new-found mission, in a very unconventional way… and Searching for Sero- a project that would help encourage mental well-being and balance, while highlighting outdoor recreation- was conceived.

“That’s always kind of natural,” John says of his instinctual nerve to grapple with loss by finding the positive. “What can I do with my skill-set to shed light and open up the conversation about mental health?”

Share the positive out of the pain: a lesson we can all learn from.

Above the traditional fray of grief, John’s combined passion for photography and staying active, began to serve as reason to share this with others; and, naturally, bring them along for the ride. “Searching for Sero is important to me for so many reasons,” he says, later giving light to the name behind the movement. “Sero is short for serotonin: it’s the chemical in our bodies that is believed to produce the feelings of happiness. It’s a chemical that we need to produce.”

With this declaration, its mission became increasingly certain: a progressive instrument chronicling ways to discover and maintain happiness amidst the outdoors; a kind of sublime state of bliss John had encountered upon one fateful and solitary bike ride.

John Rathwell and Tracy Guenard officially begin their North American adventure, Spring of 2016. (PHOTO: Searching for Sero)

Along with girlfriend, Tracy Guenard, the pair have embarked upon something beyond the walls of Ottawa; a mission clearly serving more than one purpose. When asked to speak to the why behind Searching for Sero, John gave the only natural response: “I think there’s way more than one reason- and there has to be.”

Indeed, there is.

Standing as a direct recipient of this physical phenomena, Rathwell knew he was on to something that wouldn’t speak simply to his journey, but give voice to others. “Several studies have shown that time spent outdoors … helps produce serotonin in your body.”

And amen for that. 

River surfer, David Crichton, gears-up for another state of euphoria along the Ottawa River. (PHOTO: John Rathwell for www.searchingforsero.com)

On a path to spur the happy… one bike ride, kayak glide and unspoken adventure at a time. The road to active-high has made for quite the adventure; and already, the ripple effect in this pronounced experiment of joy has given way to other’s finding and sharing theirs.

Within eight profiles, Rathwell admits that each has had, “… their own unique story.” Rathwell explains that each profile has carried its own weight of revelation, hope and inspiration.

So he and Tracy haven’t stopped.

Cregg Jalbert, finding sanctuary and joy through whitewater kayaking. (PHOTO: John Rathwell for www.searchingforsero.com.)

What Searching for Sero has demonstrated is a holistic way to deal with hurt; a balanced way to lead our lives.  It is an active documentary, reminding us of the playground found right within our natural world; still proven to paint a plastered smile on every face. The imprint he and Guenard hope to leave others with is ever-evolving, but rests upon one constant core: “We hope that we can inspire someone with mental illness to speak up and seek help.”

As for the mind behind the mission, the restorative search for sero- that childlike stoke and adventure, waiting for resuscitation and revival- is, inexplicably, taking shape; not just through him, but for every soul witness to his journey.

To find your sero and help other’s find theirs, visit Searching for Sero and join the conversation. 

A thousand storied smiles, lining the sand-shores of Ho’okipa’s famed and familiar beach. Nothing – nothing - could be more exciting than this: peering past the breaks and seeing the colorful, eclectic display of stunts, poised to offer the most idyllic and playful scene for any keiki under 17. “This year was far and away, the best year yet,” shares Ian Walsh, professional big wave surfer and brain behind the notoriously named, Menehune Mayhem event. His goal is simple: “…. creating something fun for kids to look forward to.”

Keiki engrossed in amazing creations at the Art Center during Menehune Mayhem’s 2015 event. (PHOTO: Marc Chambers, courtesy of Menehune Mayhem)

And Walsh should know. He conceived the event over a decade ago, and has been shattering the glass ceiling of keiki dreams ever since.

For most, an event like this tells only a story of wide-eyed fun; a myriad of smiles, propelled by moon-bounce dreams and cotton candy splendor. But oh, even still, the grass roots efforts that have steamrolled into every Spring, have taken the keiki of Maui, Hawaii by perfect storm; in effect, showering them with far more than the crazy fun that meets their eye.

Sure: this is, indeed, a surf contest, consisting of multiple heats for girls and boys, based upon age; carrying with it the appearance of pro surfers, lined up for an onslaught of excitement. But this is far beyond the realm of surf, ladies and gents.

Boys giving it their all during one of Menehune Mayhem’s heats at the 2015 event. (PHOTO: Rodney S. Yap, courtesy of mauinow.com.)

“The Menehune Mayhem offers the keiki an opportunity to explore creative outlets on their path to finding a life-long passion,” explains Kitty Walsh, one of the amazing hands and hearts behind the event. It is here, that a lifelong passion of empowering the youth, brings to light the incredible work of keiki discovering theirs. The spark to do so is clear and defined: nurturing an atmosphere where every kid can fly, whether that’s with their dreams or cotton candy in hand; an environment where any child – every child - can dream big; manifesting in their dream day coming to life, right before their very eyes.

Yes: there is an intention, a primed and properly tailored purpose to the Menehune Mayhem madness. A collection of demos igniting the work of experiential learning for every bewildered and excited pair of young eyes. The natural scientists, great explorers and fearless learners kids inevitably are, come marching out, uncovering the new and groovy thing set to quench their intellectual thirst: surfboard shapers, flatbread makers, colorful Frisbee creators… nothing is short of a child’s imagination. The science of ‘how’ and ‘can I do that, too?’ are answered and undoubtedly sparked.

Kazuma Surfboards reveals the secrets of crafting surfbaords during a shaping demo. (PHOTO: Nick Ricca, courtesy of espn.go.com.)

Legends of the Menehune Mayhem, and the keiki are the golden key holders. It’s their story; their line, their book; active participants in a storied book of fun.

And it seems as though Ian Walsh has only just begun. “I just think that where it’s going is creating more platforms in and out of the water,” admits Ian. The all-but-too familiar carnival like atmosphere is anointed in a heaping overflow of heart, passion for education, empowering our next generation to an elevated level of fun and engagement.

An elevated, levitated kind of fun. (PHOTO: courtesy of magicseaweed.com)

It is a lesson in a thousand storied smiles, multiplying with every year, with every event. The real, unnamed heroes of this story are the kids that have inspired the movement: their excitement, their creativity; their expertise in being masters of fun: the unsung, myriad of keiki growing up in a world where their dreams are not only considered, but fulfilled in one, single day. After all, it is they that inspire us: Ian, Kitty and CreativeWave Movement.

Here’s to you… you incredible keiki, and to all the many amazing things you will become and do.

A Story of Stoke. (PHOTO: Zak Noyle, courtesy of espn.go.com)

–CWM–