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The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

The Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

To some, the sight of people running through crowded streets with massive, flaming barrels on their backs might seem like madness. But for the people of Devon, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels is one of the county’s most cherished traditions.

The custom takes place every 5th of November, with kid’s, women’s and men’s heats; the aim of each barrel run is to keep it running between people till it completely burns out. Participation in the event is reserved only for residents of the area - making the local pride in the custom even stronger.

The Tar Barrel tradition dates back centuries, with its exact origins unclear, but it is said to have begun after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. There are various theories as to why barrels were burned, including their use for fumigating cottages or as a warning of the Spanish Armada’s approach. Another theory is that it stems from ancient pagan winter fire rituals as a way of exorcising evil spirits in the town.

November 5th ‘23

Fatima - @vanillasundaecocoasunset

Fatima - @vanillasundaecocoasunset

Fatima - @vanillasundaecocoasunset

Fatima - @vanillasundaecocoasunset

Fatima - @vanillasundaecocoasunset

Papa Yiannis, at his home in the village of Olympos, Karpathos (Greece).

Part of my ongoing body of work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a magnificent place steeped in history and unique traditions.

Papa Yiannis, at his home in the village of Olympos, Karpathos (Greece).

Part of my ongoing body of work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a magnificent place steeped in history and unique traditions.

Papa Yiannis, at his home in the village of Olympos, Karpathos (Greece).

Part of my ongoing body of work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a magnificent place steeped in history and unique traditions.

São Paolo - Feb ‘26

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

A Kind of Guise @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Recent work for @akindofguise’s new collection, ‘Threads of Destiny - The Golden Years’

Photographer: @alexkuru
Concept & Styling: @kiramaerz
Casting: @felicetopi
Cast members: David, Charis, Nikos, Giannis, Athina, Maria, Evangelia, Giorgos, Andreas, Vasilis, Anna
Casting Assistant: @katerina.lazopoulou
Prop Styling: @yasminakurunis
Production: Bouclé Studio @we.are.boucle @marianna_clarat @alexiababaliki 
Stylist assistant: @___irenek___
Printing: @darkroom8.printing at @chroma.darkroom

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Λαμπρή Τρίτη, Bright Tuesday in Olympos, Karpathos - Greece ‘24

Each year, Bright Tuesday in Olympos marks the end of the Orthodox Easter celebrations and traditions. On this day, a procession occurs, where 4 heavy icons are carried by local men and teenagers up and across the valley, blessing the cemetery, then visiting each small chapel along the way.

Part of my ongoing work documenting the remote village of Olympos, a beautiful place rich in history and unique traditions.

Salvador, Brasil - Feb ‘26

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

High up in Bulgaria’s rugged Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo does weddings differently. Every winter, seasonal migrant workers flood back home for a massive three-day celebration. For the Pomaks—a Slavic Muslim minority—this isn’t just a party; it’s a vital anchor to their roots.
At the center of it all is the Gelina. The bride’s face is completely transformed, painted and bedazzled in an intricate mask symbolizing purity. During the final ritual, she keeps her eyes shut tight to block the “evil eye,” only opening them once she crosses the threshold of her new home.

“The Gelina of Ribnovo” by @alexkuru

Full article on arxipelag.com/stories

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Images from last year while @allen_and_adcock were preparing their characters and costumes for a community performance in Shangri La, at Glastonbury Festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

The Gelina of Ribnovo. A Film by Valon Ballabani. Photography by Alex Kurunis. Hosted by Balkanism.

High in the Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo transforms each winter. As the diaspora returns, a centuries-old ritual begins - centering on the “Gelina,” a bride rendered as a living icon through a mask of sequins and pigment.

We are hosting a private screening of Valon’s film. Both @Vaballabani & @Alexkuru will be present for a conversation following the screening moderated by @arberqgashi.

Private preview: 29th March, SE London. RSVP required for confirmation:

Balkanism07@gmail.com
-
-
-
#balkanism #london #filmscreening #pomak #culture

The Gelina of Ribnovo. A Film by Valon Ballabani. Photography by Alex Kurunis. Hosted by Balkanism.

High in the Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo transforms each winter. As the diaspora returns, a centuries-old ritual begins - centering on the “Gelina,” a bride rendered as a living icon through a mask of sequins and pigment.

We are hosting a private screening of Valon’s film. Both @Vaballabani & @Alexkuru will be present for a conversation following the screening moderated by @arberqgashi.

Private preview: 29th March, SE London. RSVP required for confirmation:

Balkanism07@gmail.com
-
-
-
#balkanism #london #filmscreening #pomak #culture

The Gelina of Ribnovo. A Film by Valon Ballabani. Photography by Alex Kurunis. Hosted by Balkanism.

High in the Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains, the village of Ribnovo transforms each winter. As the diaspora returns, a centuries-old ritual begins - centering on the “Gelina,” a bride rendered as a living icon through a mask of sequins and pigment.

We are hosting a private screening of Valon’s film. Both @Vaballabani & @Alexkuru will be present for a conversation following the screening moderated by @arberqgashi.

Private preview: 29th March, SE London. RSVP required for confirmation:

Balkanism07@gmail.com
-
-
-
#balkanism #london #filmscreening #pomak #culture

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding

Portraits in @shangrilaglasto last year, capturing the characters and costumes created by @allen_and_adcock_ for a community performance during the festival. They imagined folk characters that might appear in a ‘re wilded’ world from the remnants of Glastonbury festival.

Commissioned by @kayedunnings & photographed by @alexkuru

Allen and Adcock collaborated with : @soyluciasca @rhonamackillop @propmaker_ , makeup by @houseofbendy @rebeccarosemua , dramaturgy @sarahkimfielding