Deutsch
English
Background information
"'Ozarkers always have been somewhat dualistic, believing that two great forces—one good and one evil—battle for control in each person.' (Stanley Burgess) Longtime collaborators, Antone DOLEZAL and Lara SHIPLEY currently live at nearly opposite ends of the United States (Nevada and Michigan), but their point for making this work meets in the middle, at the physiographic intersection of four heartland states. Together they have documented Ozark people and landscape over a period of almost ten years, drawn first by a desire to reconnect with their past, then compelled to relate something of the character and rituals of an area where locals can become skittish around strangers. Their photographic interests encompass culture, identity, folklore and mythology of place—but forming a clear picture of this isolated place is complicated. The roots of Ozark folklore were formed by 19th century pioneer settlers from Scotland, Ireland, Britain and Germany. From early on they had a penchant for sharing jokes and colorfully embellished stories within their community, passing down superstitions and lore to younger generations. The locals’ jubilant gatherings also involved square dancing to their self-proclaimed 'hillbilly' country songs. Meanwhile, religion is central to social life in the Ozarks, having strongly shaped the area over more than two centuries. Evangelical and Fundamentalist organizations have long held world headquarters there, and Mennonites and Amish have formed substantial settlements. The locals are generally proud of their rural values and individualistic, traditional approach to life.
Content
In the photo volume 'Devil’s Promenade', the photographers Antone DOLEZAL and Lara SHIPLEY take us along their journey into the thick woods where anything might happen; you may either bathe in the light of salvation, or come face-to-face with the Devil on a bridge, in the inky dark.
Additional information
First edition, Hardcover, section-sewn binding with cloth-covered spine; foil on printed paper cover + spine (17 x 23 cm), 152 pages, 104 photographs and illustrations. With an afterword text by Lara SHIPLEY, the book design is made by Tiffany Jones