Tender hearts and Ancient Words
The Lacandon Maya
Juanico in Her Cornfield, 1996
The Lacandon Maya
Juanico in Her Cornfield, 1996
Gelatin-Silver Print
6x9" Image
14x18" Mat
Artist Statement
Twenty-five years ago I met a young boy playing with an iguana in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico. Five years ago I visited his village and resonated with the animist rituals of these Lacandon, Maya Indians.
My focus has been three brothers age eighteen, twelve, and six. Chan K'in, the oldest brother, is handsome, strong willed, a good worker, charismatic, and he suffers from painful stomach problems. Where will Chan K'in's dreams land? Kayum, who is twelve years old (the middle child), likes to write, is sensitive, laughs easily, and follows Chan K'in around like little brothers do. Bor, the youngest son, didn't walk till he was three. He is generous and kind. He is the third son born albino, and with his blond hair and light skin, he burns easily from the sun.
This is a unique culture and members seldom ever marry outside the tribe. Now that the mahogany is logged throughout their land, the trees beside the village are gone, the mahogany that the boats are made of is gone, and the spirit of the Lacandon leaves as well. The adolescents are more susceptible to the temptations of the future but are still grounded by their families to their past.
I have named this "Tender Hearts and Ancient Words".
Process Statement
I carry very little with me during my travels; two 35mm camera bodies, one 28 lens and one 50 lens, black and white tri-x and plus-x film. I have always used only natural light. In the darkroom I work through many proofs using the gelatin-silver printing method with selenium toner.
REGRESAR A LA REVISTA
