TITLE: Familia Amaru (Peruvian Andes - 2021 )

Amaru is a unique and small mountain village in the Peruvian Andes comprised of around 180 families who mostly speak Quechua, the pre-Columbian language of the Incas. The region is known for its gracious offerings to Mother Earth, or 'Pachamama,' as symbolic displays of gratitude for daily life, food abundance, and harmony. The indigenous peoples of Amaru are as talented as they are hospitable, and are known for being masters in the art of weaving, cooking, and other authentic traditions of their ancestors.

Melissa Kepen had the honor of being welcomed into this family's home and was greeted with flower petals, traditional clothing, coca tea, warm soup and an abundance of 'papas' for lunch. She sat with them for hours and learned everything she could about medicinal plants, the process of weaving alpaca wool, and the numerous variety of corn and potatoes laying in their garden.

Failure to recognize and honor Indigenous histories, cultures, and contexts perpetuates monumental cultural loss. This small series shines a light on the importance of preserving and reclaiming indigenous identity and wisdom.



AUTHOR: Melissa Kepen (United States)

Melissa Kepen is a multi-hat-wearing documentary filmmaker, producer and photographer passionate about telling unique stories that explore and examine human relationships to the natural environment. Born in San Diego California and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Melissa was first introduced to photography by her mom as a way to observe and make sense of the ever-changing worlds around her.

Enthusiastic about visual storytelling, Melissa decided to pursue a degree in Film and Media from The University of California in Santa Barbara. Since then, her work has taken her to dozens of locations around the world, partnering with leading athletes, environmental advocates, and lifestyle brands to create compelling visual photo and video content amongst diverse cultural and natural landscapes.