In this work by David Osthoff, the focus is on understanding time, the connection between the past and future, and the impact of the internet, particularly concerning the knowledge of the indigenous Siona community along the Cuyabeno River. Thanks to its location in a nature reserve, the community has largely been spared from exploitation and has preserved its traditions and cultural identity. Limited access to modern technology has allowed for slow development, while since 2022, the internet has brought new challenges.
Visually, a river loop is depicted through a slow camera movement in a canoe, symbolizing the cyclical concept of time in indigenous cultures, in contrast to the linear progress-oriented thinking of the Western world. Through the images, interviews with villagers on the topic of digitalization and the internet are integrated, which were conducted over the past five years and document the significant changes within the community.
The work is to be considered a work in progress.
Artistic Direction, Direction: David Osthoff
Cinematography: Eddi Tobar, David Osthoff
Production in Ecuador: Esperanza Maldonado
Participants from the Siona Minority in Ecuador:
Kelvin Criollo, Alicia Criollo, Maritza Criollo, + Maria Mendúa Quintero
Cinematography: Eddi Tobar, David Osthoff
Production in Ecuador: Esperanza Maldonado
Participants from the Siona Minority in Ecuador:
Kelvin Criollo, Alicia Criollo, Maritza Criollo, + Maria Mendúa Quintero
Kelvin C
Alicia K.
Mariza K.
Eddi Tobar
making of
video stills
