With devotion and artistry, Photographer Jon Ortner has captured the essence of the sacred lands and ancient traditions of the world's most mysterious region. Retracing the journeys of holy men and shamans, he has traveled thousands of miles, over more than two decades, to portray spectacular landscapes, architectual marvels, and mystical peoples. His inspiring images-more than 300 in full color-vividly bring to life Asia's revered topography from the highest mountains and deepest gorges of the Himalayas to the once forbidden temples of Myanmar and Cambodia. Here also are the world's oldest city, Varanasi on India's Ganges River, majestic Angkor Wat, the largest temple ever built, and the volcanic peaks of Bali-magical landscapes infused with sanctity. His portraits of people are equally compelling, ranging from simply-clad ascetics engaged in ancient rites to gorgeously costumed dancers performing the same rites as their ancestors, visions that few Westerners have seen. The compelling narratives that accompany these haunting photographs trace the evolution of Hinduism and Buddhism, provide a travelogue of the region, and celebrate the teachings of these holy peoples. In addition, full captions describe the images, and a glossary and index are included. This is a book that will be welcomed by those who have traveled to spiritual Asia as well as for those who have yet to experience these unique lands.
Jon Ortner was born in Great Neck, Long Island in 1951. He started painting and drawing at an early age, which laid the foundation for his photography. In college, Jon continued to pursue art, and the study of natural history and ecology. In 1978 he moved to New York City with his wife, Martha McGuire, where they opened a photography studio and continue to collaborate. Jon's books, WHERE EVERY BREATH IS A PRAYER (STC), ANGKOR (Abbeville), and BUDDHA (Welcome Books) are the culmination of numerous journeys to the far corners of the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. A compilation of NYC photographs was published as Manhattan Dawn & Dusk (STC). His award-winning images and stories have appeared in numerous magazines, including GEO, COMMUNICATIONS ARTS, TRAVEL & LEISURE and ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST. Beginning in 2005 Jon turned his focus and passion to the canyons and deserts of the Southwest. From the greatest canyons on earth to the brilliant swirling colors of the Grand Staircase and Vermillion Cliffs, through panoramic portraits of a vast, monumental landscape at once familiar and astounding, Jon shares with us his unique vision of the beauty and incomparable majesty of America's great wilderness.
