mutual intrigue

I like to walk and see. That’s what I do. I don’t do tourist things. I just enjoy walking and seeing. In Dehang, I was mesmerized by the never-ending paths. I watched kids play and women wash clothes in the river. I’m a people watcher.

I rounded one corner and suddenly felt I was standing in someone’s home. It felt too personal and I started to leave. I looked up and an older man noticed me. He jumped up, motioned me over, and gave me a stool to sit on. He was making bamboo beautiful baskets.

The best encounters are when there is mutual intrigue. I wanted to know about him and he wanted to know about me. I was so excited I could understand what he was telling me. He’s 70 years old. He lived in Dehang all his life. His name is Liang Hong Zhou.

After spending some time with him, I asked if I could photograph him. He was excited. I was too. The only way it could have been better is if I had room in my suitcase for one of his beautiful baskets.