Forgotten Villages: A Journey Through Time Captured in Photographic Stillness

Imagine stepping into faded photographs, feeling the warmth of sun-drenched rice fields and the cool mist clinging to ancient temples. “Forgotten Villages” by Indonesian photographer Iwan Setiawan does precisely this – it transports you to a world untouched by modern frenzy, where tradition whispers through bamboo walls and life flows at the pace of a meandering river.

Published in 2018 by Jakarta-based publisher Yayasan Pustaka Obor Indonesia, “Forgotten Villages” isn’t just a collection of breathtaking photographs; it’s a poignant meditation on the enduring spirit of rural Indonesia. Setiawan’s lens captures not only the idyllic beauty of these remote villages but also the resilience and wisdom etched onto the faces of its inhabitants.

A Tapestry of Traditions:

The book is divided into thematic sections, each exploring a facet of village life:

• “Daily Rhythms”: Depicts the everyday routines that bind these communities together – from sunrise prayers to communal rice harvesting, Setiawan captures the quiet poetry of ordinary moments.
• “Faces of Wisdom”: Portraits of elders, wrinkled with time and brimming with stories, stand as testaments to generations past. Their eyes hold a depth of knowledge, reflecting both hardship and serenity.
• “Cultural Tapestry”: Celebrates the vibrant traditions that color village life – colorful ceremonies, intricately woven textiles, ancient dances passed down through ages, all come alive within Setiawan’s frames.

Technical Prowess Meets Artistic Vision:

Setiawan employs a masterful blend of technical skill and artistic vision. His photographs are characterized by:

• Rich tonal contrasts: Sunlight dappling through verdant rice paddies, the shadows cast by weathered wooden houses – each photograph plays with light and shadow, creating depth and atmosphere.
• Candid Composition: Setiawan eschews staged shots, opting instead for capturing genuine moments as they unfold. This authenticity lends a raw emotional power to his images.

More Than Just Images:

While the photographs are undoubtedly the heart of “Forgotten Villages,” Setiawan’s insightful captions enrich the reading experience. Each photograph is accompanied by a brief narrative, providing context and shedding light on the stories behind the images. These captions, written in both Indonesian and English, invite readers to delve deeper into the lives and customs of these villages.

A Timeless Treasure:

“Forgotten Villages” transcends its status as a mere photographic collection; it’s a cultural artifact, preserving the essence of rural Indonesia for generations to come. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and wisdom found in seemingly simple ways of life. In an age dominated by digital screens and relentless progress, Setiawan’s work invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our own roots – reminding us that true value lies not in fleeting trends but in enduring traditions.

“Forgotten Villages” is a must-have for anyone with an interest in photography, Indonesian culture, or simply the human experience. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, sparking conversations and igniting a desire to explore the hidden gems of our world.