A Balinese from a Brahmana priestly family, I. B. Adnyana is considered a first-rate classicist. Born in 1958 in Denpasar, he grew up attending Balinese rituals and brings an insider’s knowledge to his subjects. As is evident in his images, he has been given special unimpeded access and privileged positions and angles. It’s highly unlikely that a Western photographer would ever be allowed to enter sacred inner courtyards and get this close to a venerable high priest.
His subjects appear at ease and revealing of their inner emotions. It is as if his subjects are family members relaxed in the presence of another Balinese. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time to photograph with the greatest possible empathy and intimacy. Amidst all the confusion, he knows what is going on and is able to anticipate what is going to happen next. While other photographers are fiddling with their camera settings, he is ready to record the climax, the significant gesture or the moment when the trance state takes hold.
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