Detail of Palau wood craft (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
The ability to create and use complex objects has been a defining feature of human progress throughout our evolution. By studying the various types of objects and materials used by ancient societies, we can better understand how humankind has evolved culturally and technologically.
In 2018, photographer and designer Angelo Chiacchio - in his journey to the world's most fragile places and cultures - documented amazing objects from a diversity of unique places.
Himba stone (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Stone
The first tools used by humans were made of stone. Women from the Himba tribe in Namibia still use round rocks to prepare their traditional ochre pigment.
Stone money from Palau (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Money made its first appearance on the island of Palau in the form of stone. It is still used today to signify one’s rank in the matriarchal society.
Tsaatan knife (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Animals
Other societies learned to make the most of animal parts. The Tsaatan people in Northern Mongolia craft their tools from antlers that are shed by their reindeer.
Tribal hat from Papua New Guinea (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
The tribal costumes of the Papua New Guinea Highlands are made of colorful bird feathers. As bird species endemic to the islands become endangered, the weaving and wearing of traditional clothing has become a rare practice.
Chagga woman toasting coffee by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Wood
A Chagga woman in Tanzania presses roasted coffee in a large, handmade mortar crafted from wood.
Salt miner in Colchani (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Metal
The use of various types of metals in the production of tools marked inflection points in technological progress throughout human history.
Salt miners in Salar de Uyuni use a special ax to cut salt bricks.
Gaucho belt (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Metalwork has also provided the opportunity for artisans to design jewelry and embellishments. Any authentic Argentinian Gaucho wears a silver rastra belt.
Tibetan brass bell (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Metals have also helped us harness the power, and symbolic nature, of sound. For a monk in the Himalayas, the ring of a brass bell can represent The Buddha’s voice and a call for protection against evil spirits.
Dawn in a Mongolian house (2018) by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
Conclusion
The tools and objects of a community, tribe or society reflect the diverse needs and creativity of different peoples. Globalization now makes it possible for people all over the world to have access to the same products and experiences.
As globalization reaches the furthest reaches of the planet, however, it is imperative that we preserve and treasure the unique cultures and artifacts of the world’s most fragile places.
Terra by Angelo ChiacchioEphemera documentary
This story was created with the support of Art Works for Change, a nonprofit organization that creates contemporary art exhibitions and storytelling projects to address critical social and environmental issues.
Written, shot and produced by Angelo Chiacchio
Copy editing: Al Grumet, Rajesh Fotedar
With the support of: Google Arts & Culture, Art Works for Change
