The video below, a combination of non-stills from Gregory Colbert’s famous “Ashes and Snow,” is one of the most stunning pieces of film I have ever seen.

According to Colbert’s website, “Ashes and Snow” is an “ongoing project comprised of photographic artworks, a one-hour film and two short film “haikus,” and a novel in letters all presented in a purpose-built temporary structure called the Nomadic Museum.”

It shakes my soul to the moon and back each time I watch it.

Gregory Colbert captured “Ashes and Snow” on over 30 expeditions, collaborating with over 130 species in his piece:

“When I started “Ashes and Snow” in 1992, I set out to explore the relationship between man and animals from the inside out. In discovering the shared language and poetic sensibilities of all animals, I am working towards restoring the common ground that once existed when people lived in harmony with animals.”

“I let the animals lead and invite them to express their own sensibilities in their own voices. A conversation with an animal begins by watching gestures and reading facial cues. It is a nonverbal conversation. You do not think like an elephant. You try to feel it.”

“I have been tusked by an elephant, almost eaten by a sperm whale, knocked off my feet by a rhinoceros, embraced by a jaguar, given a haircut by a tiger shark, chased by a hippo and a black mamba, brought to my knees by malaria and dengue. But I was able to avoid the greatest danger of all. Never stop exploring the things that open you, or that you love.”

 

Ashes and Snow by Gregory Colbert from Gregory Colbert on Vimeo.

 

“An elephant with his trunk raised is a ladder to the stars. A breaching whale is a ladder to the bottom of the sea. My films are a ladder to my dreams.”

~ Gregory Colbert

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Editor: Travis May

Photo: Video Still