One of the things I love about this small village are the various cultures that have survived in this place for hundreds of years. In the case of the Zia and Jemez Pueblos you are looking at cultures that have survived since before we have recorded history.
And all of this is enhanced by the way these cultures interact with each other. Nothing is perfect, but there are many times when we enhance each others lives. One of my favorite times is over the extended Christmas season. Especially during these times, there are many proceedings open to all at the Pueblo. There are also some proceedings in our village. What you are seeing in this picture is the only case I know of where you can see Jemez dancers outside the Pueblo.
Outside the Pueblo cameras are permitted, but I didn't use a flash out of respect for the dancers, and the mood. The picture was actually much better without the flash, in my opinion. Dances like this are done around a roaring bon-fire, and that is the reason for the unusual lighting. The little girl in the picture was mesmerized by the dancers, the drums, and the chanting. I am sure this was a Christmas she will never forget.
And all of this is enhanced by the way these cultures interact with each other. Nothing is perfect, but there are many times when we enhance each others lives. One of my favorite times is over the extended Christmas season. Especially during these times, there are many proceedings open to all at the Pueblo. There are also some proceedings in our village. What you are seeing in this picture is the only case I know of where you can see Jemez dancers outside the Pueblo.
Outside the Pueblo cameras are permitted, but I didn't use a flash out of respect for the dancers, and the mood. The picture was actually much better without the flash, in my opinion. Dances like this are done around a roaring bon-fire, and that is the reason for the unusual lighting. The little girl in the picture was mesmerized by the dancers, the drums, and the chanting. I am sure this was a Christmas she will never forget.
