Elephant

This book offers an intimate face-to-face with African elephants, treating them as subjects on an equal footing with humans. The photographer's approach is not naturalist or ethology-loving, but rather seeks to capture the feeling of a rediscovered plenitude, wonder at the world, and a rebirth. In the heart of African national parks, he experiences the deep meaning of life and offers himself the luxury of slowness. The elephant obliges man to humility, reminding us that we are only tolerated guests. The book emphasizes the need to save elephants and protect their environment, as they are closely linked to the balance of our planet and refer us to our own finitude.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2021
Publisher: Hemeria

This captivating book presents an unparalleled opportunity to engage in an intimate, one-on-one encounter with the animal, treating it as a subject on par with humanity, and encouraging us to take the time to contemplate its significance. If the photographer has opted for black and white, it is to better explore the unparalleled light of Africa, its singular purity that creates a sense of direct contact with the material, devoid of any filters. Laurent Baheux's approach differs from that of a naturalist or an ethology enthusiast; he does not aim to describe behavior or unravel the mysteries of a previously unknown aspect of the animal. Instead, what he discovers with African elephants is a profound sense of fullness, wonder at the world, a rebirth, and a reconnection with life.

Far from the crowds and the urban chaos, it is within the heart of African national parks that he experiences the true essence of existence, allowing himself the luxury of slowness, a crucial aspect when it comes to allowing the animal to approach. The elephant forces man to humble himself, reminding us of our insignificant power and intelligence in comparison. It is the elephant who decides on the encounter, either welcoming us or imposing a distance. We are merely tolerated guests, as Laurent Baheux aptly reminds us. It is important to note that the elephant is not a predator; rather, it is human activities and demographic growth that pose the greatest threat to its survival today. The pressure of human endeavors, coupled with the rapid expansion of populations, endangers the elephant's existence.

As an extension of his unwavering commitment and his anti-speciesist discourse, which seeks to dismantle the psychological barriers associated with cats, Laurent Baheux has dedicated his efforts to raising awareness about the plight of African elephants. His photographs, coupled with his powerful storytelling, have the potential to inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of our relationship with the natural world. By recognizing the elephant's rightful place as a subject in its own right and by valuing its existence, we can work towards preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future for all living beings.

Weight: 1074g
Dimension: 299 x 334 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9782490952229