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They stare directly at the lens when I look at them through my camera's viewfinder. At times, it becomes difficult for my hands to focus my camera. As they stand quietly, they may project a appearance similar to us Japanese, but have a different conviction due to their harsh lifestyle. I simply held my breath and tried to negate my feeling of uneasiness as I pressed the shutter button.
"Thanaka" is a type of skin cream made in Myanmar. Used primarily by women and children, it protects their skin from the harsh South East Asian sun. Citrus tree bark is ground with stones and mixed with water into a paste. This paste can then be applied to the skin with care using a mirror. Some young women even decorate their faces with leaf patterns using this cream. "Thanaka" is indeed a symbol of Myanmar culture.
I exchibited this series at Tosei Galley Tokyo, Japan in July 2013.
Photo book "Thanaka" was published from Tosei-sha, Japan in June 2013.
photo-eye book store
Amazon.jp
IMA-online.jp
January 3, 2014
