You might not immediately recognize Terry Barentsen’s name, but if you’re a fan of urban cycling videos, it’s highly likely that his work has already graced your YouTube feed. This New York-based filmmaker has carved a niche for himself with his captivating “Hotline” series, where he masterfully captures the chaotic beauty of cyclists navigating through crowded cityscapes. His videos possess a unique skate video aesthetic, reminiscent of the raw energy found in GX1000 edits or classic Tommy Guerrero parts, showcasing a dynamic blend of skill and unpredictable environments.
We at Longboards Guide were intrigued by the unique visual language Terry employed in his videos, suspecting that the influence of skateboarding might be at play. Therefore, we reached out to Terry to gain insight into his creative process. As it turns out, Terry’s history with skateboarding runs deep and continues to shape his work, even if he’s not actively hitting the skateparks daily.
Join us as we visit Terry’s studio, delve into the parallels between skateboarding and cycling, and witness a world champion cyclist maneuvering through the streets of Brooklyn.
Terry Barentsen in his studio
The Skateboarding Influence on “Hotline”
Terry’s “Hotline” series stands out for its unique perspective and the way it captures the energy of urban cycling. It’s not just about the technical aspects of riding; it’s about the flow, the rhythm, and the almost improvisational nature of moving through a complex environment. This approach bears a striking resemblance to how skate videos document the act of skating, where the environment itself becomes part of the performance. The unpredictable nature of the city streets, much like a skate park, provides endless opportunities for creative and dynamic movement.
The influence of skateboarding on Terry’s filmmaking style is evident in several aspects:
- Dynamic Angles: Just like skate videos, Terry employs a variety of dynamic camera angles that follow the cyclists closely, capturing their every move and enhancing the sense of speed and momentum. This intimate perspective draws the viewer into the action, making them feel like they’re riding alongside the subject.
- Focus on Flow: Terry’s videos, similar to skate edits, emphasize the continuous movement and flow of the cyclists. He’s less concerned with showcasing tricks and more interested in portraying the seamless weaving through traffic, pedestrians, and other obstacles. This mirrors the essence of skateboarding where flow and creative lines are as important as the tricks themselves.
- Urban Exploration: Both skating and Terry’s cycling videos celebrate the exploration of urban landscapes. They show how the city itself becomes a playground, full of hidden gems and unexpected challenges. This urban exploration is a shared theme that binds these two seemingly different cultures together.
- Chaotic Beauty: There’s a certain chaotic beauty to both skateboarding and Terry’s cycling videos. They capture the unpredictable nature of movement in an uncontrolled environment, turning everyday situations into visually captivating performances. This raw and authentic approach gives these videos a unique sense of realism.
A cyclist navigates city streets in Terry Barentsen's "Hotline" series
The Connection Between Skateboarding and Cycling
While Terry’s primary focus is now on filmmaking and capturing the world of cycling, his appreciation for skateboarding remains a key influence. There’s a deep-rooted connection between these two activities. Both sports require a certain level of skill, balance, and spatial awareness. They’re both about pushing physical and creative boundaries within a shared urban environment.
Here are some of the connections we observed:
- Balance and Coordination: Both longboarding and cycling demand a high degree of balance and coordination. The ability to maintain control while navigating varied terrains is a crucial element in both activities. This shared requirement fosters a sense of connection between these two sports.
- Creativity and Style: Skateboarders are often admired for their creativity and style, and this same element is present in the world of cycling, particularly in urban cycling. Terry’s videos highlight how cyclists develop their own style, making their movements as much about art as about transportation. This emphasis on style is something both communities share.
- Community and Culture: Skateboarding and cycling both have thriving communities that share a love of movement, self-expression, and urban exploration. These communities often overlap, with many individuals participating in both activities. This crossover fosters a unique culture that celebrates independence and creativity.
- Overcoming Obstacles: Both skateboarding and urban cycling involve overcoming obstacles, whether they are physical barriers like curbs and stairs or logistical challenges like traffic and pedestrians. The ability to adapt, improvise, and navigate these challenges is a key aspect of both sports.
Terry Barentsen’s Perspective
Terry’s background in skateboarding provides a unique lens through which he views and films cycling. He doesn’t just capture the technical aspects of the sport; he captures its essence. He understands the rhythm, the flow, and the creative potential of moving through an urban space. This perspective allows him to create videos that resonate with both cycling and skateboarding enthusiasts. His approach highlights the inherent artistry in both disciplines.
Conclusion
Terry Barentsen’s work serves as a compelling example of how different movement cultures can influence and inspire one another. His “Hotline” series is a testament to the shared artistic vision that runs through skateboarding and urban cycling. Terry’s ability to capture the chaotic beauty of city life through the lens of movement makes his work both visually compelling and intellectually stimulating. Whether you are a skateboarder, cyclist, or simply an admirer of captivating visual content, Terry Barentsen’s films are worth exploring.
By exploring these connections, we can better understand the power of movement and the different ways people express themselves within urban landscapes. It’s a world that LongBoards Guide is keen to explore, bridging the gap between longboarding and the broader world of action sports.
Filmed by: Greg Navarro & Alexis Castro
Additional assistance: Wilson Lucas
Edited by: Greg Navarro
