In 2003, a friend introduced me to kiteboarding in Friesland. He handed me a kite, and something clicked immediately. I was fortunate enough to understand the handling almost right away. That same day, we were already cruising up and down together.

I still remember the feeling vividly — the speed, the wind, the sense of freedom. It was instant. From that moment on, I was hooked.

Naturally, I started bringing my camera with me. I wasn’t just interested in documenting the sport — I wanted to capture what it felt like to be out there. The interaction between water, wind, and light. The moments in between. Over time, through hard work, dedication, and not being afraid to do things differently, my work began to resonate. It found its way into the international kiteboarding industry, leading to collaborations with major brands, including Mystic.

Then everything changed in 2021.

After my accident, the water quickly became a crucial part of my rehabilitation. As soon as I could, I returned to it. It felt like home. I wasn’t afraid. The weightless feeling gave me space — a place where I could practice, but also regain a sense of freedom I thought I had lost. Water became more than a subject to photograph; it became a place to heal.

When Mystic approached me to create a special edition Majestic harness, it meant more than a product collaboration. Once one of my biggest clients, Mystic had stayed close after my accident. Now, we were creating something together — telling a story, and giving something back to the community that shaped me.

For the first edition, I chose a black-and-white photograph taken from the water. A half-underwater image where elements collide. The shallow depth of field reveals particles and textures you can only truly capture with a camera — a fleeting moment that instantly brings back memories.

For the second edition, the image is in color.

It represents the moments in between.
The before and the after.
The transition.

Both images come from the same place: the surface where light meets water. The moment where particles ignite, where magic reveals itself — something invisible to the naked eye, but unforgettable through the lens.

Seeing the image printed on the back plate of the harness for the first time made everything come together. Paired with a quote by Oswald Smith — “A gentle reminder that magic does exist.” — it felt complete.

Working on this level with Mystic is something I deeply value. Not just creating a product, but shaping a narrative. One rooted in freedom, resilience, and the privilege of being able to experience this sport.

I hope that when people see the harness — and more importantly, when they use it — they’re reminded of how special kiteboarding truly is. That feeling of freedom on the water. And how fortunate we are to experience it.

The Limited Edition Majestic Harness is available at Mystic Boarding or your local kiteboard shop.