Vibrant Photography Brings the Art of Climbing to Life
The release of author Simon Carter's newest book is just in time for Father's Day
Chris Hampton with Andy Kuylaars belaying the Ancient Astronaught in Tasmania, Australia. This formation offers some easier routes than the other pillars shown in the book. | Photo: Simon Carter
For fathers who enjoy the thrill of climbing mountains – or the thrill of observing world-class climbers, The Art of Climbing is the perfect Father’s Day gift. In the book, author Simon Carter marries his passions for climbing and photography through vibrant visuals from around the globe, including the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Carter emphasizes how rock formations, obstacles, the intensity and flow of climbs, and breathtaking views are some of the main appeals for several climbers. These aspects seek to inspire climbers to challenge themselves while highlighting their extraordinary feat. Adam Ondra, a four-time world champion in sport climbing, mentions that the images in this book “embody the very essence of climbing, the spirit of adventure and freedom.”
Carter’s photos capture some of the world’s most intense climbing destinations, along with the hard work and dedication it takes to conquer these awe-inspiring climbs.
Oliver Michellod in Telendos Island, Greece. Climbers often enter a state of flow, allowing them to escape the noise of everyday life. | Courtesy: Thames and Hudson
Brittany Giffith tackling the extraordinary hexagonal columns at the Devil’s Tower in Wyoming. “Mr. Clean” is a classic and sustained climb at the Devil’s Tower. Photo: Simon Carter.
John Varco at Indian Creek in Utah. This off-width crack is difficult to climb, as it is wider than a typical crack that climbers face and requires creative solutions to overcome the obstacle. | Photo: Simon Carter
Monique Forestier at Turtle Cave in Halong Bay, Vietnam. Aquatic climbs provide an added appeal for climbers. The presence of the sea can be powerful and inspire overcoming fears. | Photo: Simon Carter
Ashlee Hendy with Elizabeth Chong belaying the Grampians in Victoria, Australia. Overhangs make climbs more crazy, adventurous and exciting because they are less accessible to humans. | Photo: Simon Carter
John Smoothy in the Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia. Layers of clouds like these are common early in the morning. The connection with nature that climbers experience can become one of the biggest joys of climbing. | Photo: Simon Carter
Chris Sharma in Mont-Rebei, Spain. This multi-pitch route is one of the most difficult in the world. Sharma spent several years working on this route. | Photo: Simon Carter
Steve McClure climbing Rainbow Slab in Wales, UK. McClure is one of the world’s leading all-round rock climbers. His expertise is shown by the small holds he uses seen in this photo. “For me, much of the allure of climbing lies in its intensity.” | Photo: Simon Carter
The back cover of the book features Tony Barron at Mount Arapiles in Victoria, Australia. Arêtes, or sharp ridges, often make for a thrilling climb because of the intimidating and outrageous situations that climbers find themselves in. | Photo: Simon Carter
Monique Forestier climbing at the Taipan Wall in Victoria, Australia. This wall has large run-outs of marbled sandstone. | Photo: Simon Carter
Lee Cujes at The Face in Halong Bay, Vietnam. The limestone on this wall was so incredible that he extended his climb. Routes with strong lines are appealing to climbers and can often inspire a longer mission. | Photo: Simon Carter
