29 August 2017

The People of Peru

Well it has been a whirlwind of travel and adventures lately. From Peru, to Colorado, then Mothapalooza in Ohio (google it lol) then Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and most recently The Smoky Mountains for the eclipse, which was breathtaking!

I am so fortunate to be able to experience different places and cultures around the world. One of the best things about travelling are the people you meet along the way, not only the locals but other travelers as well. I was especially struck by this fact on my last trip to Peru. I thought I might get out of my own comfort zone a bit and share some of the interesting people I met on this journey.

This man from Brazil called himself La cara pintada (the painted face) he was travelling with his beautiful Israeli girlfriend. Not surprisingly they met at an artist market on another adventure. Quite the opposite from his appearance he was surprisingly quiet and reserved. He was actually very shy about having his photograph made. I was very happy that I was able to convince him to let me grab a few images.

Digitally manipulated image – I removed the color from his coat and the background to give the image more impact.

This is Ronaldo we met him at the Pisac Ruins. He is a Shaman from a remote village without electricity or running water. He hiked for four days through the Andes to come play his flute and explore the ruins. To have him as an impromptu guide and to experience the ruins as he played his flute so beautifully was a real gift.

Many of the people in the larger cities make their living by creating arts and crafts, like this woman spinning yard. Or this fellow who made the most amazing carved frames.

Good Luck and Good Light
Steve