Category: Focus
+ Blog, Cultural Exploration, Exploration History, Middle East, Photography & Storytelling, Saudi Arabia, Visual Anthropology
Across the Sands of Time: What Wilfred Thesiger Can Still Teach Us About Photography, Arabia, and Exploration
by KIKE CALVO
A new academic study examines the influential work of photographer Wilfred Thesiger, who captured the Arabian Peninsula between 1945 and 1950. His extensive photographic archive, which includes iconic images of the Empty Quarter, shaped Western perceptions of Arabia, presenting a timeless and unmodernized landscape. The study by Roba AlSalibi raises critical questions about authenticity and the nature of photographic representation, emphasizing that photos reflect both the subject and the photographer’s perspective. It urges readers to consider how cultural narratives evolve and acknowledges the rapid transformation of Saudi Arabia while recognizing the enduring landscapes that still inspire exploration and curiosity.
The Pearls That Changed the Ocean: A Curious Journey Through Cultivated Pearls, Exploration, and a Hidden Treasure in London
by KIKE CALVO
Inside one of London’s oldest scientific societies rests a small object that transformed luxury, marine science, and global trade forever Most people walk past The Linnean Society of London without realizing that hidden inside its collections is a remarkable piece of history: 👉 some of the world’s earliest cultivated pearls. Tiny objects.But connected to an enormous story involving: Because pearls are not merely jewels. … Read More The Pearls That Changed the Ocean: A Curious Journey Through Cultivated Pearls, Exploration, and a Hidden Treasure in London
+ Art, Craft & Material Culture, Blog, Marine Exploration, Marine Exploration, Science & Discovery, Visual Storytelling
Painting Beneath the Sea: Zarh Pritchard and the Impossible Art of the Underwater World
by KIKE CALVO
Zarh Pritchard, originally Walter Howlison Mackenzie Pritchard, revolutionized the portrayal of the underwater world by painting it from within the ocean using modified diving gear and waterproof materials. In a time when underwater imagery was scarce, he traveled to diverse locations, creating artwork that revealed the ocean’s vibrancy, movement, and mystery. Pritchard viewed himself as a naturalist rather than just an artist, blending artistry with scientific observation and exploration. His work challenged people to connect with the sea’s hidden beauty, prefiguring modern ocean storytelling and conservation photography while emphasizing the importance of making the invisible visible.
The Living Heritage We Often Overlook: When Animals Become Keepers of Culture
by KIKE CALVO
When we think about cultural heritage, we often picture castles, temples, archaeological sites, museums, or historic cities. But what if some of humanity’s most important heritage isn’t built from stone? What if it walks, grazes, migrates, or swims? Around the world, countless cultures have developed alongside particular animal species. These relationships are far more than economic. They shape identities, influence traditions, inspire art, preserve … Read More The Living Heritage We Often Overlook: When Animals Become Keepers of Culture
Why Brazil’s Pantanal Is the Best Place on Earth to See Jaguars
by KIKE CALVO
The Pantanal in Brazil is the world’s largest tropical wetland and an exceptional destination for observing jaguars in the wild. With open habitats and abundant wildlife, visitors can witness jaguars swimming, hunting, and raising cubs in a scenic environment. Ecotourism here promotes conservation, making every sighting a memorable experience.
How the Silk Road Reached Japan: A Journey Across Asia Through Art, Faith, and Culture
by KIKE CALVO
The Silk Road was not just a trade route but a cultural bridge linking East Asia to Europe. It facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and beliefs, notably Buddhism, which transformed Japanese culture. Artist Ikuo Hirayama advocated for Silk Road heritage, emphasizing the importance of cultural connections over time.
The Haenyeo of South Korea: The Extraordinary Women Who Dive With the Sea
by KIKE CALVO
The Haenyeo, or “Women of the Sea,” are a remarkable community of free-diving women from Jeju Island, South Korea. For generations, they have harvested marine life using traditional techniques and knowledge, prioritizing sustainability and community. As they age, fewer young divers are continuing this cultural legacy, recognized by UNESCO for its heritage significance.
Beneath the Woods of Roald Dahl: A Journey to Great Missenden and the Imagination of Childhood
by KIKE CALVO
In the quiet English countryside of Buckinghamshire, imagination still seems to live between the trees A little girl runs through the open fields near Great Missenden before disappearing into the woodland tunnel, as though stepping gently from the real world into the beginning of a Roald Dahl story. Photo © Kike Calvo Here are museums designed to preserve history. And then there are places … Read More Beneath the Woods of Roald Dahl: A Journey to Great Missenden and the Imagination of Childhood
Private Journeys, Created With Heart
by KIKE CALVO
LŪM Expeditions prioritizes trust and responsibility in travel. Recent guests enjoyed a flexible and memorable journey through Normandy, highlighting the personalized itineraries that cater to individual interests. The company aims to remain a boutique agency focused on genuine care, valuing each explorer while building lasting relationships for future travel.
The Hats of Exploration: Livingstone, Stanley, and the Quiet Power of Objects at the Royal Geographical Society
by KIKE CALVO
Some of the most fascinating artifacts in London are not jewels, maps, or royal treasures—but worn expedition hats carrying the memory of journeys into the unknown There are museums filled with spectacular objects. Ancient statues.Scientific instruments.Rare manuscripts. But sometimes the most emotionally powerful artifacts are surprisingly ordinary. At Royal Geographical Society, among collections connected to some of the world’s most famous expeditions, are simple … Read More The Hats of Exploration: Livingstone, Stanley, and the Quiet Power of Objects at the Royal Geographical Society
+ Asia, Blog, Culinary Traditions, Cultural Exploration, Curious Minds, Food & Culture, Travel & Gastronomy
A Soup That Never Ends: The Fascinating Tradition of Perpetual Stews Around the World
by KIKE CALVO
In Bangkok, a family-run restaurant has maintained a “mother stock” beef broth for over 50 years, embodying the concept of perpetual stew. This culinary tradition, found globally, preserves flavors through continuous addition and careful management. It signifies heritage, memory, and community, connecting generations through shared meals.
The Great Migration: Nature’s Greatest Journey Across East Africa
by KIKE CALVO
Every year, nearly two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles begin an extraordinary journey that has unfolded across the plains of Tanzania and Kenya for thousands of years There are few wildlife events on Earth that can truly be described as epic. The Great Migration is one of them. Across the vast grasslands of Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara, nearly two million wildebeest, accompanied … Read More The Great Migration: Nature’s Greatest Journey Across East Africa
