Backpacker Radio #208 | Alina "Abstract" Drufovka on Creating Trail-Themed Art, Exploring Her Latina-Jewish Heritage, and Meeting Her Partner on Trail
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alina Drufovka aka Abstract. In addition to being a thru-hiker and adventurer, you're likely already familiar with the name Abstract because of her incredible and unique outdoor-themed artwork. We learn all about Alina's transformation from thru-hiker to now full-time artist, her time on the AT, PCT, and Israel National Trail, her current gig as an Ambassadors on the Get Outside Tour where she travels the country in a van alongside her boyfriend, attending outdoor events, leading clinics, and overall spreading joy to the people. Abstract is nothing but good vibes and this is a spirited interview that will elicit smiles.
We wrap the show with a chat about why cell phones don't appear in dreams (or do they?), a story about a PCT hiker who was bit by a rattlesnake, a triple crown of people who are probably serial killers, and more!
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Interview with Alina “Abstract” Drufovka
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:01 - QOTD: Have cell phones ever appeared in your dreams?
00:09:55 - Reminders: Is it or is it not Rachel’s birthday?
00:13:25 - Introducing Alina
00:14:20 - Tell us about hiking the AT 1.5 times
00:17:20 - We Love Love!
00:22:16 - Discussion about being half Colombian, half Jewish
00:24:52 - How did your love blossom along the trail?
00:26:10 - How did you learn about the AT at age 13?
00:27:57 - What was it like retracing your steps two years after being injured?
00:28:40 - Tell us about the St. Patty’s party trail magic
00:34:00 - Does your mom fit the stereotype of a nervous Jewish mom?
00:37:40 - What are the cornerstones of your grandma’s book?
00:41:10 - What was it like to get past the point where you got off trail the first time?
00:43:10 - Discussion about expressing interest in someone without being creepy
00:44:22 - What’s the story behind the Wonder Woman outfit?
00:46:15 - At what point did art intersect with thru-hiking?
00:48:00 - Discussion about Abstract’s art style
00:51:28 - Tell us about hiking the Israel National Trail in 2018
00:54:35 - What are towns like on the Israel National Trail?
00:55:44 - Discussion about making Aliyah and Birthright
00:58:02 - Did you feel safe on the Israel National Trail?
00:59:50 - What advice do you have for people interested in the Israel National Trail?
01:02:30 - Interlude: Rachel’s birthday!
01:05:15 - Tell us about the PCT in 2019
01:08:24 - What was it like to live in Colombia?
01:10:30 - What were the biggest differences between Colombia and Israel?
01:11:15 - How did you turn your art into a business?
01:15:45 - Tell us about the Embark program
01:16:27 - Have you experienced imposter syndrome?
01:19:57 - How do you decide when to release something new and price your art?
01:20:55 - What’s been your biggest business challenge?
01:22:53 - How do you deal with having your designs ripped off?
01:28:21 - What’s your inspiration for a new painting these days?
01:29:29 - What is the Get Outside tour?
01:33:58 - How many events will you attend?
01:35:01 - Did you get to customize the van?
01:38:40 - What events are coming up on the tour?
01:39:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Appalachian Trail, Pacific Trail, Israel National Trail
01:40:10 - What piece of art are you most proud of?
01:41:31 - Describe your art to the listeners
01:43:30 - Where can people follow you?
01:44:14 - Tell us about living on a commune
01:50:37 - Are you interested in polyamory?
01:51:30 - If you could bring an aspect of commune life into your regular life, what would it be?
SEGMENTS
Trek Propaganda
- PCT Hiker Hospitalized After Rattlesnake Bite by Kelly Floro
Stupid Thing of the Week
Listener Voicemail
Triple Crown of people who might be serial killers
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
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