We got to know eachother through Korua and have been friends ever since. When I told Morgan about my film idea, he immediately offered to be my filmmaker. Of course, I was really happy and super nervous at the same time… ;)
What are some of the influences and inspirations for Apricity?
I’ve been moving between the two worlds of surfing and snowboarding for years. It’s normal for me to often be the only woman. When I worked in a remote camp in Indonesia last year and was more or less the only woman there for two months, I realized how important it is for me to interact with other women. Or rather, how much I missed the female energy. I realized that more female energy is needed not only in the snowboarding and surfing scene, but in the whole world. By that I mean: caring for each other, intuitive action, creativity, gentleness, etc. In the movie I want to show how important and beautiful these feminine qualities are.
Can you tell us more about the film’s title?
Apricity – the warmth of the sun in winter. How the soft and gentle flows into a rather harsh landscape, showing a dance of contrasts.
Can you tell us a highlight and a lowlight of the filming of Apricity?
There are many highlights, but off the top of my head I can think of the first few days of filming. Morgan and I worked well together and the conditions were incredible. We got up early every morning and fell into bed in the evening totally exhausted, but happy, fulfilled and with great shots.
The lowlight was definitely the fourth day in the Mentawais, Indonesia. Unfortunately, the waves weren’t as good as we had hoped for on the first few days. When the swell finally arrived on the third day, it was so stormy all day that no spots could be surfed. The next day I injured myself. I missed my takeoff in a small wave and hit my face on my board underwater. I had to have the cut stitched up and was out of the water for three weeks. I was sad and disappointed.
Let’s talk about balance: something that is not only important in snowboarding and surfing. How do you manage to balance filming for your project, your job, the wishes of your sponsors and time for yourself?
Thanks to my great employers and coworkers, I was able to take the days off in winter to film. After the winter, I’m always drawn back to the warmth. In Indonesia, I now have a large network of contacts that enable me to work in different places. Seasonal work, good contacts and open communication make it possible for me to juggle everything.
Tell us about the places where you filmed and what they mean to you.
I deliberately chose the Bernese Oberland, my home, as a filming location because I know the area well, have a personal connection to it and discovered my passion for snowboarding here. These mountains have a special meaning for me.
We filmed on the Mentawais, in Indonesia, in the summer. I worked there for three months as a surf guide. The place is beautiful and has a special atmosphere that inspires me a lot and where I now feel at home.
What do you think are the biggest differences between the snowboard and surf scenes that you’re involved in?
I think that the biggest difference is when there are a lot of people. It seems easier in the mountains. People spread out and we often ride in small groups, whether in the park or off-piste, and have fun together. But when there are too many people in the water, it often leads to rather unpleasant sessions. People get greedy and disrespectful, don’t stick to the rules and often only think of themselves.
What are your plans for this winter?
I’ll be in Japan for four to six weeks. Otherwise, I’m looking forward to enjoying the winter days in the Bernese Oberland and pushing ahead with a few projects there.
Who would you like to thank?
Definitely Morgan, Korua Shapes, Album Surfboards, Doodah, El Tony, Mamaloha and Botik Resorts for making this project possible. And of course all of my sponsors, friends and family!
