Stunningly Sumba

(11/21/2004)

The Sumba Foundation - a charitable organization dedicated to improving the health and welfare of the people on the remote island of Sumba – has just launched a book of breathtakingly beautiful photos and accompanying essays on the rich history and culture of the island of Sumba.

Home to ancient Neolithic monuments, hand-woven Sumba textiles resplendent in their symbolism and prized by museums the world over, and deeply ingrained tribal traditions – Sumba is also home to an arid climate which, combined with the island's remote location, has resulted in widespread economic privation.

The 176-page full color book contains outstanding photos by some of the world's leading photographers. Together they have recorded one of the world's most picturesque and culturally interesting places where little more than two generations ago headhunting and tribal wars were still commonplace.

Produced with major sponsorship by Quiksilver, all proceeds from the book's sales go directly to support the Sumba Foundation's field projects in health, education, clean water and economic development to help the impoverished people of Sumba.

Authored and coordinated by long time Sumba resident Claude Graves with foreword written by Dr. Lawrence Blair, "Sumba" also contains a preface written by Jann Wenner, publisher of Rolling Stone Magazine and a first time visitor to Sumba. Chief Photography was by Jason Childs, Indonesia's premier surf photographer. Art Direction, editing and photography was done by Leonard Leuras with additional photography by Georges Breguet, Dan Brooks, Jay Gerson, Claude Graves, Jeff Hornbaker, and Jean Howe.

To lean how to order this important limited edition book and assist The Sumba Foundation follow the link provided.