For “Essence”, Schlegel aimed to convey the beauty, dignity, pride, and hope of a people who both live and cherish native traditions and cultures. These include tribes from Kenya (Turkana and Rendille, Pokotand Massai), Ethopia (Mursi, Suri, Ebore, Hamar, Kara), Namibia (Himba), as well as Egypt and Lybia (Beduine), Algeria (Taureg), Afghanistan (Hazar and Nuristani), and Pakistan (Kalash and Pashtun). Using a handmade wooden Ebony (SV45 Ti) 4×5 field camera, a gray canvas backdrop, and Portable flash system outfitted with a 90cm softbox, Schlegel captures details, textures, scars, imperfections; and via an abiding intimacy and intensity, the intrinsic humanity that he seeks.
Available in:
- Edition of 5 + 1 AP, 125x104 cm
- Edition of 6 + 1 AP, 77x64 cm
- Edition of 10 + 1 AP, 60 x 50 cm
More info: https://echofinearts.com/artists/jan-c-schlegel/works/biwa-with-crocodile-kara-tribe-ethiopia-2009/