A photographic cycling journey
The past two months me (Bart) and my girlfriend (Mirjam) have been cycling from the dusty towns in Syria to Thessaloniki, Greece. In the next months we will be cycling through the majority of the Balkan countries. As a photographer I want to capture how I perceive the balkans showing culture, architecture and 'memories' from former Yugoslavia.
The goal of this project is to create a hardcover book and an exhibition in Holland. Staying at peoples homes I will be able to capture peoples visions on their societies, these stories will be a part of the book. In my photographic work I focus most on decay or the return of nature in urban spaces. This will therefore be an recurring theme in the book.
The project video shows a slideshow of pictures I have made during the cycling trip, to give an idea about my photography style. Please visit our website to see more work: www.leef-tijd.tk
'Balkan in Beeld' is the Dutch title of this project and means Balkan in Images.
The impact
When cycling the world is viewed differently; slower and closer to real life. Highways are evaded, small villages where real life happens become important destinations. Sleeping at local peoples homes creates an experience a a 'normal' tourist will never have.
The book and exhibition will show an artistic impression of the balkans. Hopefully it will inspire people to travel more by bicycle.
What We Need & What You Get
I will need an estimate of 2200 dollars for this project. This accounts for the design and print of a hardcover book (number of copies will depend on donations) and the organisation of an exhibition. Furthermore I will be able to take some time to stay longer at locations when needed, since we are now travelling super low budget and have little financial room for 'delay'.
Of course, donations are rewarded with a gift. Check it out on the right side of the page.
Other Ways You Can Help
Please share this project with people you know. If you know any balkan related organizations please forward this project. Please take advantage of the share tools on this page - add a link on your facebook, Linked In and/or Twitter. Thanks!