We began this sequence of portraits, all featuring ‘Horizon Athletic’ costumes, during the Covid pandemic. The pandemic had the effect of forcing people to assess their local surroundings and reap the benefits of their direct environment, one phenomenon was how many people turned to cold water swimming as a means to escape, revitalise and meditate. Focusing on one small French community which has a very international community we created this project of personal interviews along with portraits of local women. Each photograph was taken in the exact same location but at different times of the day, ranging from sunrise to sunset, and over a period of a few months; the landscape, quality of light, weather, reflections, water conditions and all of the environmental factors were in a state continual flux and change, creating a differing dynamic with each image regardless of the static location.
Photographs and interviews created by Angela Huntbach-Hertault of AHH Agency. With thanks to all of the wonderful women in the portraits who share their image along with most personal feelings and insights with us. You are our Horizon Heroes…
I was born and raised in the small costal village of Borgarnes, Iceland. I competed in timed swimming meets in the hope to qualify for the 1988 Seoul Olympics at the age of 16. Swimming and having a connection to water has remained an essential part of my life.
I am now based in Messery, France. I continue to swim throughout the year, in Lac Leman, two to three times per week, on work breaks from a high pressure Operations role at a buzzing Commodities company in Geneva. I have the feeling of a soulful relationship with the water.
It’s where I find my peace. In the water I have a deep connection with myself, my thoughts, it is a chance to breathe. In the cold water of winter I always question myself before going in; Why am I doing this…? But as soon as I hit the water this changes, it is mind of matter and once you conquer that fear, discomfort, you feel you can do anything.
Alongside swimming, I practice yoga and complete monthly semi-marathon trail runs during the spring / summer / autumn. In winter I am a dedicated skier. I love to be in nature and I live with a spirit of spontaneity and fun.
