Western China is a region interwoven with a rich history, culture and community. As a major passageway for the Silk Road, a burst of diversity can be seen at the intersections of bordering nations and historic trade routes.
Surrounded by the Taklamakan Desert and Lop Nur, the 4,000 mile Silk Road was divided into three routes in Western China. This photo series follows the northern route beginning in Xi'an (formerly known as Chang'an and once the capitol of China) and continues through Lanzhou, Wuwei, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi and Kashgar.
Along the way, one encounters vibrant mosques, temples, historical Mogao caves, breathtaking mountains, treacherous deserts and the remains of ancient civilizations. Consequently, the Silk Road was the vein of civilization transporting not only merchandise, but also ideas and inspiration. Marco Polo's legendary travels on the Silk Road led to the introduction of pasta to the West, serving as just one of the many anecdotes of discovery on the road.
Ancient life on the Silk Road was a vibrant existence and a primary source of mankind's intellectual and cultural exchanges. Today, the people who live there continue to uphold the dynamic and multicultural traditions of their ancestors.
These images are modern day depictions of daily life shaped from ancient customs on the Silk Road.