SURF: The Yin & Yang of Gerry Lopez

Patagonia, Dec. 14, 2022; Eds., Wisdom Quarterly

Jerry and Friends tried to make jam music.

Jerry Garcia probably didn't get around to surfing much, but he did ride the waves during the Electric Acid Tests of the CIA and university psychologists. But this isn't that Jerry. This is the story of Gerry, a seminal figure in the world of surfing. Music festivals and LSD would have to do for Garcia, but Lopez was looking for something more, some oneness with nature via meditation, yoga, or riding the sea.

The Yin & Yang of Gerry Lopez | Patagonia

(Patagonia Films) From award-winning documentary filmmaker Stacy Peralta comes Patagonia’s The Yin & Yang of Gerry Lopez, a film that lifts the veil on one of surfing’s most enigmatic heroes.

The Grateful Dead led the free form dance

While “Mr. Pipeline” is famously known for his calm demeanor in the tube, Gerry built his early career on cutthroat, aggressive surfing. Gerry is as radical as he is Zen; he transcends categorization.

He’s one of the most influential surfers and surfboard shapers of all time, an entrepreneur, a family man, a movie star, and a lifelong yogi who brought surfing to new frontiers.

His influence on modern surfing is immeasurable, and his story is being told in full for the first time.

Produced and directed by Stacy Peralta. Written by Stacy Peralta and Sam George. Produced by Monika McClure. Executive Producers Evan Hayes, Alex Lowther, Josh Nielsen. Editor Paul Crowder. Music by Matter.