HUMANITY. We exist in contrasting shapes, sizes, shades and guises. We exhibit various characteristics and distinctive preferences. We exercise respective religions and peculiar philosophies. Our geography, education and financial situations further separate us. Our coexistence as earthlings is not always peaceful-- yet it is through this diversity that we, as a human race, are greatly strengthened. Our unique individuality creates a rich and textured human tapestry –without which we would suffer.

As a traveling photographer, it has been my pleasure (and education) to share countless cultural experiences with diverse peoples during my international expeditions. I have been repeatedly showered with humbling hospitality and generous abundance. We humans truly are a marvellous race. My global glimpses aspire to expose a window of opportunities which might open eyes, hearts and minds to greater understanding and ACCEPTANCE. I wish to introduce faces and places; traditions and cuisines; landscapes and natural wonders--which would otherwise only be witnessed by those plagued by insatiable wanderlust. These images represent a tiny slice of the wealth of humanity encompassed on this planet we share.

Although we are created with unique personalities and tendencies, we are greatly shaped by the environments in which we are raised. Have you ever considered how vastly different your life would be if you had been born in another corner of the world? What if your culture or family embraced an opposing cultural ideology or religious outlook? How greatly changed would be your experience if your skin were a different colour or your access to “civilization’” (as you define it) were altered significantly? What if your gender or sexuality were not what they are? What if you went from poverty to royalty –or vice versa? What if you lost a limb or your sight, or a family member? What if your current path were no longer possible and your life direction diverged?

My challenge to you is to IMAGINE your world through the eyes of another.

I will begin my photographic series the way we all begin this life: as receptive children. Eventually, innocence is overshadowed by experience and “education” and our views and opinions become more concrete. Yet there is a glorious period where we live free from prejudice and judgment: youth. Please peer into these faces and imagine a life you might have experienced if you were born elsewhere.

 
About the Artist: Daniel Heintz is a wandering nomad [with a camera] who is often lost and found. Enamored by earth and humbled by humanity, he enjoys being invited into the lives and homes of strangers who become fast friends and positive influences in his rather eccentric existence. He can be followed on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook: @classicnomad and @ classicnomads. He also has a webpage with limited images available at: www.classicnomad.com