Aesthetics: Patrick Trefz, Surfer’s Journal

In August 2020, amidst the wildfires that ravaged the Santa Cruz Mountains, photographer Patrick Trefz faced the harrowing possibility of losing his life’s work. Forced to evacuate, he sought refuge in Mendocino, where the threat to his photographs loomed large. Thankfully, his home survived, preserving decades of his artistic journey. This period of introspection during the pandemic inspired Trefz to embark on a new project: Ode to Travel. In this intimate exploration, Trefz blends his passions for photography, travel, and cooking, offering a sensory-rich journey through his lens. Written for The Surfer’s Journal by Jamie Brisick, this article delves into the making of Trefz’s new book and the experiences that shaped it.