Welcome to another month of News of the Nude. It was a crazy month with all sorts of news stories, positive and negative, pertaining to nudism, naturism, body freedom, nude expression, et cetera, etc. We broke a few stories here, and also shared many that were already making the rounds. We championed wins, and we suffered losses. It was a goddamned whirlwind. But that’s what makes life exciting and meaningful, and we’re happy to be here. We’re happy you’re here too.
Normally, we do a shout-out to our new paid subscribers here, but as busy as this month was, we actually did not get very many new sign-ups, and we got even fewer messages of support. This isn’t a guilt trip. I totally get it. Life’s fucking crazy. Everything costs money. We’re a free newsletter for that reason. We love our readers, every one of them. Yes, you. Specifically, you reading this right now. I love you.
So yeah, no big deal. I’m sure we’ll have more messages to share next month. And if you really feel bad about it—which, again, you shouldn’t—and if you are feeling like you want to support our work, here’s a limited special offer to sign up for 50% off. Good for this weekend only.
Thank you all for being here. I fucking love you. That’s now the second time I’ve dropped an f-bomb in this intro. I have to stop writing these while drunk. Just kidding! Alright, let’s get to the news. 🚀
News of the Nude 🪐
Nudists form human chains to defend naturism in around 20 Catalan beaches
Dozens of nudists formed human chains across 20 Catalan beaches to advocate for naturism and call for respect from clothed visitors on July 14th. The protest was in response to the increasing presence of clothed swimmers on traditionally nudist beaches. At Savinosa Beach in Tarragona, around 60 participants held hands along the shore.
Segimon Rovira, president of the Catalan Naturism Club Association, highlighted the societal challenges nudists face, noting that while nudism is not illegal, it is often socially stigmatized. He attributed this to a broader trend of growing conservatism globally. This event was the third non-consecutive occurrence of such a demonstration, following previous ones in 2019 and 2023.
Participants emphasized that their call was not for more space but for mutual respect. Ramon Canyelles, a naturist at Savinosa Beach, praised the freedom naturism offers but acknowledged the discomfort some clothed visitors might feel. The event also drew attention to the decline in nudist activists and the reluctance of younger generations to practice nudism due to social media and privacy concerns. 🚀
Naked men save tourist from random assault in Castro
In a dramatic incident in San Francisco’s Castro district on July 2, two nudists, Pete Sferra and Lloyd Fishback, intervened to save a tourist from an assault by a man armed with a blowtorch. The attacker, described as a “crazy kind of pirate guy,” was threatening a Brazilian tourist when the naked duo stepped in. A bystander first disarmed the attacker by snatching the blowtorch, but the assailant then began punching the tourist. Fishback responded by knocking the attacker to the ground with a punch.
The assailant, identified as 38-year-old Zero Triball, has a notorious history of causing trouble in the neighborhood. He was arrested and remains in county jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. Local business owners expressed frustration over Triball’s continued menace, with calls for stricter measures to manage such offenders. Supervisor Rafael Mandelman highlighted the need for conservatorship for repeat offenders like Triball. Sferra emphasized their act of heroism and hopes to normalize nudity in the Castro, portraying nudists as regular, contributing members of the community. 🚀
‘I share your disgust.’ Texts show Seattle Mayor Harrell, rich neighbor discussing Denny Blaine
Newly obtained text messages reveal private conversations between Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and philanthropist Stuart Sloan regarding the proposed playground at Denny Blaine Park, a popular nudist spot for the LGBTQ+ community. Sloan, whose house borders the park, expressed his disgust at nudity and alleged lewd activities. Mayor Harrell agreed, stating, "If you are disgusted, I share your disgust," and promised action. The playground proposal, backed by Sloan's funding, was ultimately scrapped following public opposition. Mayor Harrell later emphasized his respect for public nudity rights while seeking to address concerns about inappropriate behavior and park conditions.
Planet Nude recently reported on this story, noting that the Friends of Denny Blaine have launched a fundraiser aiming to raise $3.3 million for park improvements, including the addition of bathrooms and other amenities to enhance the space for all visitors. 🚀
Read our coverage:
French strip off again as nudity makes a comeback
Nudity is making a comeback in France, with an increase in naturism following the Covid lockdowns. The number of naturists has grown from 2.5 million to 3.8 million, and the country now boasts 141 naturist clubs. This rise is attributed to a desire for freedom and a healthier, environmentally friendly lifestyle. The scope of naturism has expanded to include public activities like hiking, biking, and visiting restaurants and museums.
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations in Marseilles has launched the Naturist Paradises exhibition, aiming to clarify the difference between naturism and nudism and challenge stereotypes. Despite France’s strict public nudity laws, efforts are underway to normalize nudity, with events like naked theatre festivals and museum visits. 🚀
Dozens bare it all for a charity skinny dip at Baker Beach
As readers of Planet Nude are well aware, Skinny Dip Day was earlier this month, and with a little luck and effort, a few dips managed to attract attention from local journalists. One such event took place at Baker Beach in San Francisco, where dozens of participants bared it all to raise funds for the Fistula Foundation, supporting the treatment and prevention of obstetric fistula.
Organized by Luke and Brit, the event saw nudists like Andy Tabbat, a veteran skinny-dipper, embracing the opportunity to be their most authentic selves. Andy might also be familiar to readers of Planet Nude as an occasional contributor, and the subject of an episode of Naked Age podcast, “San Francisco Naked Guy.” Connie, another participant, joined to support women in need, while Mat Allen participated simply because he enjoys unique Bay Area events. James Pollard and Philip van-Reijn highlighted the importance of normalizing nudity. Dave Stauffer, an experienced nudist, shared his feelings of connection to nature while hiking and skinny-dipping.
Around 50 participants stripped down, creating a supportive and lively atmosphere. 🚀
Read our coverage:
I tried skinny dipping at N.J.’s nude beach and it was a bare necessity
Another piece of media covering Skinny Dip Day comes from NJ.com. Karim Shamsi-Basha, who grew up in Syria, recounted his experience participating in the event at Sandy Hook's Gunnison Beach. Despite initial hesitation, Shamsi-Basha joined the group to support the Fistula Foundation, which helps women with obstetric fistulas.
Shamsi-Basha initially remained clothed but eventually joined the group of 40 skinny dippers, experiencing an unprecedented sense of freedom. The event included activities like body painting, bingo, and yoga, fostering a welcoming and accepting atmosphere.
Organized by Thomas Francine, the event raised $1,815 at Gunnison Beach, part of over $10,000 collected nationwide. Francine, the founder of SkinnyDipDay.org, started organizing these fundraisers in 2019. This year marked a record-breaking year for both SkinnyDipDay.org and the Fistula Foundation. Francine, who overcame body shame through skinny dipping, emphasized the event's focus on freedom and acceptance.
Full disclosure: I have agreed to fill a spot on the board of SkinnyDipDay.org, which has recently filed paperwork to establish itself as a nonprofit entity. I believe that the mission of SkinnyDipDay.org aligns with the concept of “visible altruism,” which I’ve written about as a strategy for nudist organizations to attract positive press and PR through engagement in charitable acts and public good—an argument for which the above two articles provide a wonderful case in point. 🚀
Read more:
Sponsor shout-out:
Libs of TikTok attacks Toronto area nudists
The GTA Skinnydippers from the Greater Toronto Area faced death threats this month after a fake news hit-job by True North. The article, published on July 2, accused the group of endangering children by promoting public nudity at Pride events. The inflammatory piece claimed that the Toronto Police Service was negligent in not arresting naked individuals at Pride, implying a threat to minors.
Libs of TikTok, an extremist group known for stoking anti-LGBTQ+ hatred, amplified the narrative, falsely asserting that GTA Skinnydippers allowed minors to swim nude with unrelated adults. This sparked a wave of online vitriol, resulting in the group losing venues and having their social media accounts deleted.
Stéphane Deschênes, owner of Bare Oaks Family Naturist Park and president of the International Naturist Federation, also received threats. He requested police protection for Bare Oaks and issued a statement condemning the baseless accusations. Deschênes emphasized that children in naturist settings are always with their families and that research shows benefits from family social nudity.
“Our whole community is being grossly mischaracterized as dangerous for children when in fact the opposite is true,” Deschênes said in a press release. “In a world where social media perpetuates a climate of sexual exploitation and objectification, we need the naturist message more than ever.” 🚀
Read our coverage:
The naked truth: Owner of naturist resort weighs in on Toronto-based nude swimming club recruiting minors
An example of Stéphane’s skills at handling the media, in the video above he offers a masterclass in media strategy for nudist clubs and organizations, deftly turning negative stories into promotional positives. Amidst recent threats against the GTA Skinnydippers and his Bare Oaks Family Naturist Park, Deschênes defended the naturist community with grace and resilience. His ability to counteract far-right attacks with factual, composed responses underscores his PR expertise. With over forty years of experience promoting naturism, Deschênes has been a steadfast advocate, notably through his long-running podcast, The Naturist Living Show, which has enlightened audiences since 2008. His skill in navigating media challenges demonstrates an exemplary approach for spokespersons in the naturist community.
I asked Stéphane about his strategy with the media when fielding controversies of this sort. Here was his comment:
It is a fallacy that any press is good press. But often bad press can be turned into good press. Generally, there are three types of news stories: Something new, a controversy, and human interest. As we all know, controversies get the most attention. In social media in particular they get a lot of clicks. So we can use controversies to our benefit.
Unless something bad has happened, naturism is not a negative story. It may start that way but that is only because people misunderstand or are uneducated. So if a controversy starts externally (sometimes you can also initiate it) then it will happen with or without you. At least if you participate, there is a chance that you can turn the tide. No person or organization has ever looked good by saying “no comment,” telling reporters to leave because they are trespassing, or getting angry and yelling insults.
But you do have to understand the arguments and how to respond to criticism. Sometimes the temptation is to try to make it go away by giving in to some demands. For example, some places have decided to go 18+. When you do that, you are confirming the assumption that naturism is an adult activity and that children could be harmed. Once the beast smells blood, it won't let go until you've been consumed. 🚀
Respect for Naturism: Addressing Photography Etiquette at Hanlan’s Point
Stephane Deschênes was also in the media this month addressing concerns over unauthorized photography at Hanlan’s Point nude beach. Advocates from Friends of Hanlan’s stressed the importance of respecting privacy by avoiding photos with people in the background. Deschênes, co-president of the International Naturist Federation, emphasized that naturist beaches should be safe spaces for everyone, including queer and trans individuals. The community calls for stricter measures and clearer signage to protect naturists’ privacy. Deschênes’ leadership and media savvy in promoting and defending naturism continue to set a high standard for the community. 🚀
More from Stéphane:
Nudists in Spain fume over 'disrespectful' fully-clothed Brit tourists who 'ruin' beaches
This summer, anti-tourist protests have erupted across Spain, with locals upset about being priced out of their neighborhoods by Air BnBs and vacation rentals. Among the most affected are Spanish nudists, particularly in Catalonia, where a long-standing tradition of nude bathing is under threat from fully-dressed tourists. These visitors are not only wearing swimsuits on traditionally nude beaches but are also behaving disrespectfully, making locals feel displaced. Spain's tourism boom, with over 84 million international visitors in 2023, has exacerbated the issue, disrupting peaceful local communities and leading to increased resentment. Managing this influx while preserving local customs and the economy remains a challenge for Spain’s tourism authorities. 🚀
NSFW Venus: From colonial archives to machine learning datasets
A fascinating look at the evolution of body representation, the article “NSFW Venus: From colonial archives to machine learning datasets” examines the journey of Venus figurines from archaeological finds to their implications in digital data sets. Discovered in 1908, the Venus of Willendorf symbolizes the shift from utilitarian clothing to artistic representations of the human form, reflecting historical biases rooted in colonialism and racial hierarchies.
Fast forward to the digital age, algorithms like NudeNet are trained using vast, often non-consensual, datasets of nudity. This mirrors colonial collection practices, highlighting ongoing issues of surveillance and control. The article also notes how social media platforms disproportionately censor images based on body types and racial biases, continuing the legacy of hierarchical categorization.
Contemporary artist Stephanie Syjuco challenges these narratives by digitally “healing” historical photographs, advocating for bodily autonomy and resistance against oppressive systems. This continuity from physical to digital archives underscores the persistent power dynamics in how bodies are viewed and judged. 🚀
Skinny dipping event cancelled over legal concerns
A charity skinny dip in Jersey, planned for July 13 to raise funds for Jersey Hospice Care, was canceled due to legal concerns. The event had received initial permissions from the police, the Bailiff, and St John Constable Andy Jehan. However, Jehan revoked his consent upon discovering the event might breach the Policing of Beaches (Jersey) Regulations 1959, which prohibits behavior or attire likely to offend public decency on beaches. Organizer Ross Mantle argued the law’s wording was ambiguous but expressed hope for future events. Similar successful events in Guernsey have raised nearly £11,000 for local cancer charities over the past three years. Constable Jehan suggested the event could proceed in the future with legal clarity. 🚀
Dance, spend time in nature, and get naked! 17 body confidence tips from people who have it
A really cool look at various nude and nude-adjacent practices, this article offers 17 diverse tips on body confidence from individuals with firsthand experience, including naturists, fashion models, sex therapists, yoga teachers, and more. Anne Nisbet, a naturist, advises starting with spending time naked alone at home and gradually joining like-minded people in safe environments, such as naturist beaches or naked saunas, to feel comfortable in your own skin. Other contributors include Emma Breschi, a fashion model who encourages trying new looks to build confidence, and Danni Spooner, a go-go dancer who practices self-love affirmations.
The tips emphasize self-acceptance and body positivity through unique approaches. For instance, intimacy expert Gigi Engle highlights the benefits of intentional masturbation for body image, while psychologist Viren Swami recommends spending time in nature to foster a positive body image.
The article also explores the therapeutic power of movement, with yoga teacher Jessamyn Stanley and psychotherapist Eloise Skinner suggesting yoga and dance as ways to connect with one's body. Plus-size model Jake Kneeshaw and body image advocate Stephanie Yeboah share how they overcame societal pressures and embraced self-love through personal rituals and affirmations.
In aggregate, these practices highlight the therapeutic benefits of intentional nudity and body-positive activities as means to accept and celebrate one’s body. This compilation of experiences showcases how different people find confidence and self-acceptance through diverse, inclusive, and often liberating practices. 🚀
I hiked with nudists at a Colorado campground. Here’s how you can, too.
Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, a reporter for The Denver Post, joined a nude hike with 21 strangers at Iron Aspen Ranch in Boulder County. The 30-acre property, owned by Mickey Haggerty, is a haven for naturists. Haggerty, who has embraced a clothing-optional lifestyle, started the camp to offer a space for like-minded individuals. He estimates hosting 100-150 visitors annually, with activities like naked snowshoe hikes. Participants emphasized freedom, body positivity, and healing from trauma as reasons for their nudity. Despite initial hesitation, Boyanton experienced the sense of community and liberation that nudism offers, but concluded she prefers wearing clothes. 🚀
Mum's 'entitled' move at nudist beach baffles internet
A viral Reddit post detailed an encounter at a nudist beach where a mother asked a nude man to cover up so her children could visit the beach. The man, a regular visitor to the well-known nudist spot, was approached by the mother who subtly hinted at her request before explicitly asking him to "get decent." He refused, leading to an argument that ended with the woman leaving in frustration.
Commenters were divided: some supported the man, arguing that the mother should not bring her children to a nudist beach if she was uncomfortable with nudity. Others suggested that while his frustration was understandable, he could have handled the situation more diplomatically. This incident underscores the ongoing tension between nudists and those uncomfortable with public nudity, even in designated areas. 🚀
Backlash after Edinburgh cyclists bare all in city centre to protest 'car culture'
A WNBR protest in Edinburgh on July 6th saw cyclists ride nude through the city center, sparking significant online backlash. The event, part of the World Naked Bike Ride held globally since 2001 and in Edinburgh since 2004, aims to highlight cyclists’ vulnerability and protest against car culture. Some social media users called for police action, describing the display as ‘grotesque’ and ‘exhibitionism.’ Organizers defended the protest, emphasizing it was not illegal or sexual, and aimed to promote body freedom and environmental issues. They noted public nudity is not an offense under Scots Law unless it causes alarm or distress. The event encourages participants to ride ‘as bare as you dare’ to protest oil dependency and climate change. 🚀
We Visit a Nude Car Show to See the Full Monte Carlo
The Valley View Recreation Club in Cambridge, Wisconsin, hosts an annual Nude Car Show, a 35-year tradition that merges car enthusiasm with naturism, attracting around 300 attendees and a variety of vehicles including Corvettes, Dodge Challengers, and a 1937 Nash LaFayette. Participants enjoy the freedom and body positivity fostered by the nudist environment. First-time attendees quickly adjust to the friendly and respectful atmosphere, with nudists emphasizing proper etiquette and safety around vehicles. The event has grown significantly, featuring awards for various categories, with the Nash LaFayette winning Best in Show in 2023. The show aims to attract new club members and has successfully encouraged visitors to embrace naturism. Notably, this piece neglects to mention Lake Como’s regular nude auto show, but that’s not a huge surprise given the longevity and relative popularity of the Wisconsin one. 🚀
Enjoying Planet Nude?
‘Everybody screamed when they saw it!’ The sudden rise in penises on TV
This interesting piece from The Guardian discusses the increasing prevalence of male nudity on television, highlighted by the recent episode of House of the Dragon featuring two explicit scenes. Shows like Game of Thrones and its prequel are shifting the balance of on-screen nudity from predominantly female to more male representation. Critics like Rhianna Dhillon note the transition from exploitative to balanced portrayals of nudity, emphasizing consent and authenticity. Productions such as The White Lotus, Euphoria, and Sex Education reflect this trend, supported by advances in prosthetics and a push for gender equality by female showrunners. This shift mirrors evolving societal attitudes toward gender and sexuality in media. 🚀
She painted her hopes, then died young. The loss for art was immense.
In 1906, Paula Modersohn-Becker moved to Paris, leaving her husband and stepdaughter to pursue her artistic ambitions. Her prolific career produced 734 paintings and nearly 1,400 works on paper within a decade. Despite her success, Modersohn-Becker is relatively unknown in the U.S., making her retrospective at the Neue Galerie significant. Known for leading expressionism in Germany and creating the first nude self-portrait by a woman, her works often depicted women and children with fertility symbols, breastfeeding scenes, and powerful still lifes. After returning to her husband in Germany and becoming pregnant, she tragically died of a postpartum embolism in 1907. Her art reflects her journey of self-discovery and the struggle for authenticity in a rapidly changing world, highlighting the complex relationship between motherhood, creativity, and personal identity. 🚀
Marathon Runner with Double Mastectomy Races Topless to ‘Normalize Mastectomy’ — and Is Now a Guinness Record Holder (Exclusive)
Louise Butcher, a 51-year-old marathon runner from North Devon, England, has become the Guinness World Record holder for the “Fastest Marathon Runner with Double Mastectomy.” Butcher runs marathons topless to normalize mastectomies without reconstruction. She aims to challenge the negativity surrounding mastectomy flap closure surgery and promote body positivity. After her aggressive lobular cancer diagnosis and subsequent double mastectomy, Butcher found empowerment in running topless, appreciating her body’s healing ability. Running without breasts has brought her comfort and freedom, encouraging her to embrace her new body. Butcher’s decision to run topless during the London Marathon in April 2024 was a statement against the stigma associated with mastectomies. Her actions received positive reactions, inspiring others to reconsider their self-image and attitudes towards mastectomies. Butcher continues to advocate for body positivity and hopes her record will encourage more women to embrace their bodies post-mastectomy. 🚀
The beginnings of fashion: Paleolithic eyed needles and the evolution of dress
Researchers led by Dr. Ian Gilligan at the University of Sydney have explored how the invention of eyed needles around 40,000 years ago in Siberia marked a pivotal shift in human clothing from practical necessity to social expression. Eyed needles, more sophisticated than previous bone awls, allowed for the creation of complex, decorated garments by facilitating fine sewing and the attachment of decorative elements like beads. This innovation reflects a cultural evolution, as clothing began to serve not just for protection against the elements but also as a medium for expressing individual and group identity.
The study underscores that early humans initially used clothing for survival in harsh climates, but over time, clothing became a tool for social and cultural expression. The development of adorned clothing signaled a move away from nudity, which was once the norm in warmer climates where clothes were not a necessity. The adoption of clothing allowed for the formation of larger, more complex societies by enabling people to inhabit and thrive in various environments while maintaining social cohesion through shared styles and symbols. 🚀
Byron Bay is to be stripped of its nudist beach – and naturists blame ‘conservative creep’
Tyagarah Beach, Byron Bay’s only legal clothing-optional beach, lost its status on June 30, 2024, after a New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) survey revealed it fell under national park jurisdiction. The decision followed complaints of indecent behavior and a petition by local residents. Naturists, like Duncan James and Bradley Benham of Northern Rivers Naturists, argued the closure resulted from “conservative creep” and undermined a valued community space. Despite the closure, naturists held a final gathering, with some, like Benham, willing to risk fines to continue using the beach. This shift reflects broader societal tensions over public nudity and community values. 🚀
Bodies in Art: Crash Course Art History #11
CrashCourse on YouTube, July 11th, 2024
A fascinating video on nudity in art and what various representations of nudity reflect in different cultures throughout history. I won’t say much about this video other than I thought it was extremely well done and full of fascinating information. It’s a good note to go out on for this month’s News of the Nude. Check it out and let me know what you thought about it in the comments. 🚀
That’s it for this month. We’re tracking more stories that are about to drop. Some are pretty damn exciting. And we’re always following the news to report on the media watch month in these News of the News editions. Have a tip on a story? Send me a note!
Enjoy the summer, folks. It’s winding down faster than we realize. It’s all just flying by. If there’s anything I’ve been feeling this week, it’s that this experience is fleeting. We only have so much time together. We have to make the most of it. 🪐
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