Photo: Courtesy of Nature of Surf Women
Nature of Surf Women is a surf book unlike any other. The hardcover tome is an interactive photo and audio journey that combines traditional visual storytelling with the sounds of the ocean, jungle sounds, and audio interviews, to give readers a unique glimpse into the lives of the female surfers documented in the book.
Set in Nosara, Costa Rica, the book is a collection of 22 stories of individual journeys, best friends adventuring together, family challenges, finding surf buddies, and mother-daughter bonding experiences. Each story is accompanied by a QR code that links to a two-minute sound profile. All of the profiles include sounds of the ocean and jungles of Costa Rica, and some even include songs written and performed by the surfer.
Photo: Courtesy of Nature of Surf Women
Nature of Surf Women was created by the work of many hands. When Ivana Bajic first began surfing she first realized just how deep her connection with the ocean truly was. Through spending countless hours in the water, she felt a strong connection with nature and her own body. She noticed that the women she met while surfing were some of the happiest, most supportive, and coolest people she’d ever come across. She was inspired to share their stories.
Bajic partnered up with Gabriela Tellez, an award-winning documentary photographer, to bring her vision to life. The idea was to capture nature and water from the female perspective and share female stories. Through the book, her goal was to stray from the confines of mainstream media and surfer stereotypes and instead, share stories of the women exactly as they were.
Photo: Courtesy of Nature of Surf Women
Over the course of a year, Bajic and Tellez photographed 30 women ranging from 12-67 years old in 20 different locations across Nosara. Their work was dictated by the weather, tides, and surf conditions and while the project was a long one, it paid off. The book displays a collection of unique, artistic images that represent the beauty and strength of the female body.
In addition to images, the duo teamed up with holistic surf coach Holly Beck and audio naturalist Martyn Steward to create an atmosphere that allows for a truly mindful journey.
Photo: Courtesy of Nature of Surf Women
“Our goal with Nature of Surf Women is to inspire and encourage women to feel beautiful and strong in their bodies, to spend more time in nature, and whenever possible grab a board and go surfing,” says Bajic. “Surfing does not have to be a competitive sport. It can also be a way to meet new friends, connect with family, facilitate self-growth, and reconnect with nature — imagine if more women would surf!”
In a male dominated sport, it’s nice to have something that celebrates women. Although the book is still in its early stages, it’s sure to be a coffee table staple in surf homes across the globe. The book is set to publish in October 2022 with 128 pages that include 100-plus photos.
To learn more and support the Kickstarter campaign, click HERE.
