A Canvas of Rock

A Canvas of Rock transports the reader through two of the most influential
periods in modern British rock-climbing as seen through the eyes one of the
UK’s well-respected rock climbers – Mark Radtke.

This collection of personal experiences and friendships with climbers from the
1970s to the present day, provides a rare insight and first-hand account on
some of the crucial and at times contentious episodes that paved the way to
today’s rock-climbing scene. We are also treated to insights of the man
himself – his passion and his drive that have allowed him to challenge his
limits and to pioneer many new Extreme routes.

‹Rad shows us his own frailties – his vertigo, his occasional bursts of
egocentricity – and this makes him a convincing guide. It is a great read,
full of humour and drama, but at the same time it is a wise and important
contribution to the ongoing debate of climbing ethics.› From Foreword by Andy
Cave

Mark Radtke (Rad) is a well- known character in the UK’s rock climbing scene
having spent the last thirty years pitting himself against hard extreme routes
around the world and adding to the rich tapestry of climbing with a plethora
of first ascents of his own. He embraces climbing in all its forms, but in his
debut book reveals how adventure lies at the heart and soul of the experience.
‹Without risk climbing simply becomes a sport›.