VERÓNICA SALAZAR BAENA / MARLON STEVE CELIS HERNÁNDEZ
In 1949, the young Orlando Fals Borda--a researcher and sociologist, and one of the founders of participatory action research--had his first contact with the village of Saucio in the department of Cundinamarca. This rural and Andean cultural landscape, so different from his own, would become the epicenter of his sociological reflection. Known for being one of the most outstanding Colombian intellectuals in history, Fals Borda practiced, theorized and taught until the end of his days the concept of "sentipensante" to define social research from a respectful, empathetic and community-oriented perspective. The 72 photographs included in this book are part of the field diary of that first experience in Saucio and are part of the abundant archival materials he left behind. Far from hierarchies and Manichaeisms, the images that make up this book show the point-of-tview of a sensitive and original photographer, who dignifies the human condition and values the work, everyday life, affections and fortitude of the grass-roots of rural Colombia in the first half of the 20th century. "His photos are populated by housewives, teachers, students, peasants, miners, who are intentionally portrayed as similar to many other Colombians." (HKB Translation) --Page 14.
