Jimmy Nelson

Jimmy Nelson has spent his entire life photographing Indigenous cultures which resulted in the creation of his first book that became Before They Pass Away in 2013. For his second book Homage to Humanity 2018, he further extended his global coverage of Indigenous heritage. Hereby firmly establishing his visual signature of creating a pedestal for his subjects to shine on and from. A podium which has given these varied and far-flung communities a platform of respect and dignity. He aspires with his work to create a feeling of importance for the communities to get a better sense of their uniqueness in the world that we live in. This very personal and passionate documentation is a way to reignite the love within and for Indigenous people and to celebrate their human diversity and beauty. His long term dream is that all humanity realises that we are one and with this unified vision we can then learn, thrive and sustain this precious planet.

Proceeds of the book are used to set up projects within the independent Jimmy Nelson Foundation.

WORK

People are always at the heart of his work. Days, even weeks are invested in creating the mutual trust that enables both parties to truly connect with one another. This is achieved by boundless curiosity and adoration. As there is no common language, Jimmy Nelson communicates by expressing his emotions through physicality. Once the scene is set and the connections are made, the people are gathered during sunrise or sunset and through this natural light the subjects are bathed in a warm glow of pride. This artistic presentation is very deliberate with its aim to honour the beauty of Indigenous people and their connection to the essence of humanity.

Jimmy Nelson’s art provides a new perspective to the dominant societies of how powerful, wealthy and inspirational Indigenous cultures are. For him, they are the living example of how to live in harmony with themselves, the other and the natural environment. He is certain that if we follow their footsteps we could deal with the challenges which humanity is facing in an alternative way.