22. The art of transforming ourselves with make-up,
masks, and “jewelry” [here in the form of nature,
using flora and insects] is a universal
phenomenon that has continually shifted through
the ages. Before man and woman sought to vent
their artistic impulse on a cave wall, they painted
their faces and bodies as well as that of their
children.
Regarding the exhibit at hand, decorating one’s
body in various patterns and shapes has been a
part of the cultural make-up of indigenous tribes
around the globe since the beginning of time.
Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, for instance,
believe that in this power to change ourselves, we
demonstrate our humanity and set ourselves apart
from the world of the animals.
The subjects of this collection were shot on location
in Rio Dulce (Guatemala) and in San Miguel de
Allende (Mexico).
Digital and alternative gold leafing processes were
used in the making and printing of these
photographs. The edition of these is limited, hand
signed and numbered.