Sand Script - A history of place
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Prize
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PhotographerPieter de Vos, Canada
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Website
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Instagram
This series explores how patterns of sand can trace the history of
a place. During my daily walks along a stretch of beach in
Aposentillo, Nicaragua, I was struck by the unique images left
behind by retreating waves. It occurred to me that the layers of
light and dark volcanic particles convey deeper meanings. There is
a dialogue between the land and the ocean — a visual
communication transmitted by the perpetual movement of water
and sand. It is the symbolic discourse of place. In this case, the
script reveals the origin of Nicaragua and its tumultuous past. The
writing also foreshadows what might come as traditional ways of
life are disrupted by the arrival of tourism and the increased
investment of foreign capital. It is as if the land and the ocean are
channelling the spirit of the Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío and his
images of seaswells and charcoal skies.
Pieter de Vos is a documentary photographer, facilitator, and engaged academic. He has a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Alberta. He has explored social issues such as poverty, social inclusion, and HIV/AIDS. His photos have been exhibited throughout Canada and have been featured by such media as Photo District News, the Globe and Mail, Photo Life Magazine, Alberta Views Magazine, the Edmonton Journal, and CBC Television.
In 2012 (ongoing), he initiated a photographic and narrative exploration of place-making and spatial justice in an informal settlement in Pretoria, South Africa.
Awards * PX3 2018 - Bronze Winner - Culture Category
* PX3 2018 - Bronze Winner - Abstract Category
* PX3 2018 - Honorable Mention
* PX3 2018 - Honorable Mention
National Pictures of the Year Awards Competition 2017 (NPAC)
Photo District News (PDN) Photo Annual 2018
Siena International Photo Award 2018
Tokyo International Foto Awards 2018
