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2011 I visited Vietnam. It was not my first visit to this beautiful country. But I had a goal. Photographing mountain people (montagnards) as a tribute to beautiful authentic though vanishing people living in northern Vietnam, northern Laos, northern Myanmar and southern China in remote area's that are more and more connected with our world.
Sand roads changing in asphalt. Tourists arriving, governments providing 'intrastructure, phones & internet.Yet, these people still are aware of their roots. 'Their people' are connected with clothes, stories and family ties. Regardless 'official borders'.
"Some people are poor, they only have money" Bob Marley reminded us. Here is a different wealth. Proud, happiness. Satisfaction after a day in nature. These people live a basic life, but authentic, colourful, with a big smile. How long will they resist being seduced to a more confortable but less authentic life?
I am grateful to all montagnards welcoming me to sit at their table, discuss daily life, challenges and dreams. Allowing me to make this series and being utterly hospitable.
