BAREFOOT TO TIMBUKTU

Now Opening February 12th at the Quad in New York

Directed by Martina Egi

Ernst Aebi is available for interviews, to request an interview please contact Anniemcdonough@falcoink.com

BAREFOOT TO TIMBUKTU cleverly weaves archival and new material into a fascinating portrait of artist Ernst Aebi, an out-of-the-ordinary Swiss/American swashbuckler, one of the pioneers in the transformation of Soho and Tribeca’s factory spaces to lofts, and a social activist of a different kind.
 
On a trip to the Sahara in 1989, Aebi came across Araouane, a settlement in the middle of the desert, seven days by camel from Timbuktu. The once prosperous oasis was disappearing under encroaching dunes, when Aebi passed through on a caravan. So moved by the destitution, Aebi stayed three years to help the people.  Under his guidance, the village awakened to a new life: a productive vegetable garden, a school, and even a small hotel rose from the barren sands.
In the early nineties, a civil war in Mali forced Aebi to escape “his” village. He left behind a blooming oasis and a family of friends who awaited his return.  Except for a few earlier unsuccessful attempts, almost twenty years passed until Aebi was finally able to return.
Through interviews with locals, loved ones and Aebi himself, we come to understand the strength, ambition and eccentrities of a man willing to walk that extra mile.   On a journey between hope and doubt, “Barefoot to Timbuktu“ is a film about tolerance, conflict and friendship.

Press Materials available at:
http://www.Barefoot2Timbuktu.com

Please join us for an advanced screening at the Quad:
(34 W. 13th St between 5th and 6th Ave)

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14TH AT 10AM

To receive a screener or for additional information, please contact:
Annie McDonough at AnnieMcDonough@falcoink.com or by calling (212) 445-7100