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This is not about work
"Why don't you write more about your work?". The question is not new and the answer always remains the same: I do not share details of my work. Yes, ICRC made me adhere to a code of conduct, "encouraging" me to avoid posting stories on the organisation's activities without its approval. And yes, a big part of my work involves confidential aspects (meetings with interlocutors from all sides, visits in detention, ....). But honestly, it only plays a secondary role in my decision.
The truth is simply that this blog is not about ICRC, the countries I am working in or the atrocities I might be witnessing. This blog is about sharing pictures, coupled with some stupid anecdotes or, from to time to time, more serious thoughts on general subjects. While people enjoy reading poetry, cooking or practicing yoga after work, I love photography. And as it currently is not my main activity anymore, this blog a good excuse for me to keep shooting and challenging myself.
I am not against the idea of talking about some parts of my work or Afghanistan. You will just have to invite me for a drink or dinner :-). But if you can't wait or currently live a bit too far for that, some talented people, with more skills and knowledge than me, should already be in a position to help you. Start by having a look at the Afghanistan Analysts Network or keep an eye on The New York Times, who frequently has interesting articles.
31 August 2014: Barcelona's streets, Spain
London
A few pictures from London, around Brick Lane. Nice place, particularly on Sunday, with the "vintage market" and of course, the best British cuisine: Indian food :-)
I also recommend a very nice photo exposition at the Barbican: Everything Was Moving. I am not totally sure to have seen the link between all the pictures published, but it remains really interesting. Some photographs are already famous (e.g. a few from Larry Burrows, in Vietnam or from Ernest Cole, in South Africa) but I discover with pleasure the work of a few other photographers, including Bruce Davidson (photographer for Magnum).
Now, back in Switzerland, I see myself repeating the same process, while preparing my departure. But that's another story...
07 October 2012: An afternoon around Brick Lane, London, UK
Rucksack and camera: The Return
After a few years dreaming of it, I am finally in Latin America (Peru). Wondering where to travel, I decided to work for 2-3 weeks for an association, before hitting the road. With simple living conditions, isolated in a small village, it sometimes reminds me field trips in Darfur. But for once, I speak the language and communication is therefore easier (not to mention the absence of national security).I hope to keep improving my Spanish skills and really look forward to taking pictures, hopefully depicting interesting situations. More to come... inch'allah.
07 June 2012: Children watching a movie in San Andres village, Peru. [Click on the picture to enlarge it].
Reloading batteries
Three weeks since my return to Europe but I'm still not really used to it. I had forgot fast internet was daily routine on this side of the world and I'm still enjoying a bit too much walking in the cold and the rain (not to mention skiing).But the big news is that I finally have a room, a permanent place where I can sleep and store my books/equipment/belongings. As it seems I've been a bit nuts in the last months with Amazon and my credit card, I have a nice pile of books to read. I would just like to mention three:- Magnum Contact sheets by Magnum. A great way to (re)discover the work of fantastic Magnum photographers and particularly their way of approaching their subjects. Fascinating.- The suffering of Light by Alex Webb. A beautiful book containing a selection of his best pictures. Simple but so powerful.- Dies Irae by Paolo Pellegrin. Pellegrin became one of my favorite photographer, through his very personal style and vision, mostly in conflict zones. Inspiring.
And if you don't like reading (and even if you do), then you might want to have a look at the following movies. I don't want to spoil your pleasure and to write anything about the story so... just watch:- Shame by Steve McQueen.- Drive by Nicolas Winding Refn.And if you know a way to stop thinking about Shame, let me know. I have been watching it in my mind for a week now (and not just because of Carey Mulligan)...I usually love to feel lost in places I'm visiting. I never thought I would in my hometown... I wish you all the best for 2012.