Our Summer 2016 issue is inspired by the utopian movements of the late ’60s and the alternative communities that redefined progressive culture. Utopia, a Greek word that means “an imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect,” remains a destination both physical and mental, one where people seek refuge and retreat from the harsh realities of society. Right around the same time these creative communes, art collectives and environmental grassroots organizations were flourishing, the backpacking craze of the ‘60s and early ‘70s was gaining momentum. Long-haired climbers inspired by this counter-culture mentality would go on to build brands like The North Face, Sierra Designs and Dana Design, working out of their garages and kitchens in towns like Berkeley and Bozeman.
With a nod to these tumultuous and transcendental times, we are stoked to feature stories that celebrate an alternative to our increasingly prefabricated lives. Come with us as we go road “tripping” up the PHC, investigate plant-based dyeing techniques, and profile a new generation of iconoclasts as they surf their way down fresh water rivers, build communities out of “waste” materials, and declare the birth of the wild feminist movement.
Just remember: The more far out(doors) it feels, the better.
This article was originally published in RANGE Magazine Issue Five.
xx Jeanine