Concrete and Powder

Duality with Photographer, Daniel Ronnback

Words and Photos by Daniel Ronnback

Over the past decade, my life has been a mesmerizing dance between the realms of enchantment and passion. This journey began a decade ago when I met Andreas Fransson, who shared with me a collection of audio recordings, spanning fifteen hours, featuring the profound wisdom of writer and philosopher Alan Watts. It was an encounter that forever altered the trajectory of my life, propelling me into philosophical and spiritual exploration. It was during this transformative period that I began to grasp the essence of equilibrium, that for every night in a humble tent in Lofoten, there would be a corresponding stay in five-star opulence. I learned that to fully appreciate happiness, one must first acquaint oneself with the depths of sorrow. That every facet of life has its antithesis, each playing a pivotal role.

Thus, the allure of capturing the beauty of untouched powder snow through the lens of my camera drew me to the starkness of urban landscapes. Street skiing provided an unparalleled contrast to the serenity of mountainsides. In this juxtaposition of powder and concrete, I discovered a harmony.

Through every journey, I have been blessed to encounter diverse individuals hailing from all walks of life. Each person I have crossed paths with has infused my experiences with a unique flavor. Last year I embarked on a unique odyssey with Swedish skier Kim Boberg, documenting the artistry of his distinctive style from Minneapolis to the raw streets of Quebec. And yet, the journey was far from over.

Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Skier: Kim Boberg

Kim Boberg

Just a month later, I was in a humble cabin nestled in the heart of untamed wilderness with my friend and long-standing ski partner, Sammy Carlson. A decade of chasing powder had brought us together once again. The bonds forged through years of shared adventures intensified our experience, making this the pinnacle of our shared adventures.

Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

Skier: Sammy Carlson

The season was a reminder that true fulfillment lies in embracing the many contrasts life gives us—from a fallen old concrete warhorse to an empty mountain range.