From displays of flagellation in Quito, to public mutilations in Phuket, that is, from the Andes to Thailand, and across thousands of kilometres, I discovered evidence of a similarity among all, a commonality that pulses along through the veins of folk legend and revealed through the native processions, intricate costumes, multicoloured spectacles, tribal dances and hypnotic rhythms. The intense gazes and mystic auras of the participants is equalled only by the onlookers who often exhibit the same ecstactic enthusiasm and passion.

These ceremonies - as much impious as religious, but ever colourful, animated and joyful -demonstrate the common peoples' need to celebrate life. rather than make war. Such events have coloured and enriched my life, capturing my heart for many years and leading to a project that shows the diversity and originality of folklore festivals; ethnic traditions that are threatened in today´s globalization oriented trend.

Although discovery and exploration have raked over the planet, human adventure is far from over. And even though Latin and Asian art, fashion, music and literature have infiltrated Western pop-culture, it is truly more inspiring to encounter the soul of these people in their homeland.