Mar 28

Mar 28 No More Gentlemen's Agreements

Art, Creative People, Culture, Fashion and Design, Interviews, Nature, Photography, Travel

Welcome to our interview with Osheen Harruthoonyan, a renowned photographer and friend, whose captivating project, "No More Gentlemen's Agreements," delves into the intricate supply webs, ecosystems, and communities surrounding raw materials for the fashion industry.

Focused on Uganda and Kenya, Osheen's lens uncovers the profound connection between local tribes and the Ankole cow, a sacred symbol steeped in centuries of tradition. His imagery unveils how every facet of Ankole, from meat to milk to horns, weaves a complex tapestry linking industries, communities, people, and policies. This project is just the beginning. Osheen plans to expand documentation to include farmers cultivating other raw materials for fashion, such as cotton and silk, and as he says "the possibilities are endless".

“The journey in Kampala and Nairobi was full of discovery and exploration. My approach was to observe and listen, delving into the essence of my experience. My work, like "Morphogenesis," explores the raw state of concepts, intertwining Mayan philosophy with biological development. Through my lens, I seek to unveil the origins of stories and showcase the intricate connections that shape our world.

In "No More Gentlemen's Agreements," I embarked on a quest to uncover the origins of materials in the fashion industry, focusing on leather and horn. These materials serve as pivotal points in a vast supply chain, touching the lives of countless individuals worldwide. The project sheds light on the interconnectedness of industries and ecosystems, revealing the profound impact of each material's journey.

The project's title echoes a poignant moment in Nairobi, where an artisan lamented the loss of raw materials to large corporations, declaring "No More Gentlemen's Agreements." It captures the essence of the project, highlighting the challenges and complexities of the supply chain.”

Tell us Osheen about a highlight or vivid memory from this experience:

“I vividly recall a scene etched in my memory: the sun casting its golden glow on swirling dust particles and the red clay earth, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as it settled on a row of cows at a bustling cattle market. Along the road to Kiboga, Uganda, en route to an Ankole cattle ranch, our journey unfolded amidst captivating vignettes of life. Our guide, with a bullet hole scar glistening in the morning sun, would extend warm greetings to children along the way. Amidst the serene backdrop of white cranes by the Kazinga Channel, juxtaposed with the toil of prisoners in yellow jumpsuits. From a mishap involving a motorbike transporting pigs to an incredibly raw sight of a boy selling dog food to support his family, every moment encapsulated the resilience of the landscape and its people. Their unwavering commitment to preserving the land and fostering sustainable practices resonated deeply, painting a portrait of hope and renewal amidst the chaos.”