On the Island of Java in Indonesia, toxic smoke billows onto the surface of the volcanic mountain Kawah Ijen through tentacle like tunnels. With it, a golden treasure is escorted into the light from the depths of the burning Hell Fires–pure sulphur or Devil's gold, as the local calls it. This is what the miners are harvesting laboring deep in the belly of Mt Ijen, collecting this yellow mineral with their bare hands and crude tools. Miners break the sulphur in smaller pieces to be transported in their reed baskets. Carrying about 70 kg on their shoulders with no padding back up the crater.
Larry Louie is a travel and humanitarian documentary photographer. Over the last couple of years, he has used his photography as a platform to high light the work of different charities around the world, along with other social issues and challenges people are encountering in a world facing rapid urbanization and globalization. He wants to engage people in inspiring stories of perseverance and strength, not only of those who have found themselves caught in such a plight, but also amazing individuals and organizations that are lending a helping hand.
Awards 2018 Monochrome Awards- Professional Photographer of the Year – Photojournalism
2017 PDN Photoannual- Personal Project winner
2012 Black and White Spiders Awards-1st place in Photojournalism (Professional)
2010 National Geographic Traveler - First Place Winner
2007 National Geographic Magazine - English Language Contest-First Place - Photo Essay
2007 Conde Naste Traveler Magazine Grand Prize Travel Photo Winner
2007 IPA/Lucie Award - International Photographer Awards-Lucie Trophy Award Winner Amateur
