The name Dancing Spirits is inspired by the animistic beliefs of the Bayaka people, who see the forest as alive with spirits revealed through nocturnal dances and runs with rhythmic drumbeats. In the Republic of Congo, where 60% of the land is covered by rainforest, the government has divided it between logging companies and national parks, posing challenges for the local population's livelihoods.
Indigenous groups like the Bayaka, who rely on the forest for their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle, face marginalization as their territories are disturbed by industrial activities.This disruption jeopardizes their food security. In rural areas, bushmeat stands as the primary source of animal protein. It is essentially a “free” source of protein because the animal can be captured rather than purchased. As such, it plays a role essential in the diet of the population in rural communities.
However, the increasing demand for bushmeat from growing urban populations exacerbates the pressure on these communities, leading to overhunting and depletion of wildlife resources.
Camilla Richetti (b.1985) is an Italian independent documentary photographer. Currently based between Spain and South Africa. She has lived abroad and traveled extensively since childhood, nurturing her curiosity and cultural awareness while shaping her character and drawing her creative vision. Her work is focused on social and environmental issues, cultural phenomena, and identities. With a solid background in international relations and languages, Camilla combines it with anthropological methods in her photography practice. Compelled to understand the motivations and perspectives of people, she aims to create awareness and foster understanding through visual storytelling
Camilla Richetti
Email: camillar.photos@gmail.com
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