2009 EARTHQUAKE, WEST SUMATRA
In light of the previous post, and its mention to the earthquake that struck parts of western Sumatra in 2009, I figured this an appropriate segway to share a few images I’d taken in Padang, a day or so after the tragedy. You see, this also happened to be the exact time my then partner, Fern, had come to visit. A →
POISON ARROWS
Hunting - an integral part of the traditional Mentawai lifestyle sees the hand crafted bow and arrow as the most commonly used method for fatally wounding their prey. So how could a handmade arrow possibly stop a rampaging wild boar? Well, by gathering a selected mixture of flora from the nearby jungle, the huntsmen are able to extract a poisonous →
FISHING
Landing in this new island habitat saw a sudden and significant change to my diet. The transition period for the first month would result in diminished energy levels; provoking a need to learn the art of fishing – an important survival skill for those residing by the ocean. Fortunately Si Hen and a couple of experienced fisherman in the village →
OVERWHELMED
Editing is underway… slowly. I’m finding it very difficult to sit in front of the computer for extended periods and, for whatever reason, I’ve taken to running in the bush. If my head becomes sore it suggests that I run - so I do. I’ve been running further and further everyday, and I quite enjoy it. I might even invest →
WHAT AN EXPERIENCE!
I’ve returned home from the Mentawai Islands where I’ve been living for 18 months. What an amazing experience it's been. I’m thinking a great deal about the lifestyle and my friends I’ve left behind there. These people are incredible. I can’t even begin to describe how much I’ve learnt from them and this experience, in so many aspects. It'll →
