The Adventure is the Effort. The Art is the Result

Welcome to the journal, not quite a blog, not quite a notebook, it’s more like my thoughts, ramblings and ideas. Just a quiet space where I can put words to the images I create and share stories from the road. Sometimes it's a reflection, sometimes a glimpse behind the scenes, and sometimes it's just the thoughts that surface after a long hike, a quiet camp, or time spent off the beaten path.
Think of it as a place to wander, through landscapes, ideas, and whatever else the journey stirs up.

Adventure to Kyrgyzstan
Adventure Andrew Hertel Adventure Andrew Hertel

Adventure to Kyrgyzstan

In the summer of 2023, I embarked on an extraordinary journey that transported me to Kyrgyzstan, an uncharted gem in the heart of Central Asia. It was a place so incredibly beautiful that it felt like stepping into a vivid dream. Nestled amidst towering mountains and pristine landscapes, Kyrgyzstan unveiled its breathtaking panorama, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture interwoven with awe-inspiring natural splendor. From ancient Silk Road routes to nomadic traditions, this land whispered stories of the past. Yet, it was the sheer diversity of landscapes, from majestic peaks to serene alpine lakes, that truly mesmerized me. My adventure was further enriched by thrilling horseback rides, nights in traditional yurts, and the genuine hospitality of the Kyrgyz people. Join me on this vicarious journey through Kyrgyzstan, where every corner reveals a new layer of wonder, making it a dream come true for any traveler yearning to explore the extraordinary.

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La Línea
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

La Línea

A section of border fence extends into the Pacific Ocean separating Tijuana, Mexico and the United States.

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Laguna Sentinels
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Laguna Sentinels

A rare winter storm brought a magical winter wonderland to San Diego’s local mountains, of course I had to take advantage of the conditions and had a snowy adventure day.

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I’m riding my bike from Canada to Mexico!
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

I’m riding my bike from Canada to Mexico!

I’m finally doing it, I’m going to ride my bike over 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico. Follow along and join me as I bikepack my way down the Continental Divide along the world’s longest unpaved trail, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.

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Finding My Voice
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Finding My Voice

Perform a Google search on the secret to becoming a successful artist and you’ll get a zillion results on the importance of finding your own voice/vision/niche. Whether it’s finding a topic that’s interesting to an artist or something that will set them apart from the crowd, every artist needs to find what makes them tick and standout amongst the crowd. I’m finally finding my voice as an artist, I still have a ways to go but I’m on the right path.

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Photography With Intention
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Photography With Intention

Photography starts with a vision but how viewers see images vary. A large fine art print hanging on a wall is very different than viewing images on cell phone screens.

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