TITLE: Down to Earth・Jharia

In the heart of India's coal-rich region, the Jharia coalfields have become emblematic of our times’ most notorious conundrum—the intersection of economic progress and environmental peril.

Located in the eastern states of Jharkhand and West Bengal, Jharia's vast coal reserves have long fueled domestic energy needs and worldwide steel production, while beneath its surface lies a hidden crisis: an unrelenting underground fire that has raged for a century, spewing toxic fumes, destabilising the land, and upending the lives of local communities—entire families braving hell-on-Earth for survival, while government efforts to resolve the issue seem helpless and local initiatives remain the only hope for a way out.

Down to Earth・Jharia is a dive into the mines and the lives of those communities in attempt to draw a straightforward, humane perspective on the Jharia situation and the fate of its people: children 'over there' who dream the same dreams as children 'over here', lone souls scavenging for coking coal turned into steel we collectively depend on, in heavy, polluted air contaminating the air that everyone, ultimately, breathes.

The series is shot in deep dark, luminous black and white. A visual echo of sorts to the colour and texture of coal itself.

AUTHOR: ROB Walbers (Japan)

Born in Belgium in 1981, ROB Walbers emerged as a visionary photographer with an innate ability to encapsulate the soul of his subjects. His journey into the captivating realm of photography began in the heart of Antwerp, where he delved into the art form at a prestigious institution, honing his skills and developing a keen eye for composition.

ROB's early career was marked by a passion for the vibrant intersection of music and editorial photography. As a freelancer, he navigated the dynamic landscapes of the music industry, capturing the raw energy of live performances and the intimate moments behind the scenes. His lens became a storyteller, weaving narratives through each frame and earning him recognition in the industry.

In 2010, driven by a quest for new perspectives, ROB embarked on a transformative journey to Japan. Immersed in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, he expanded his repertoire to include fashion and advertising photography. The juxtaposition of traditional aesthetics and modern innovation infused his work with a unique and captivating allure.

Renowned for his exceptional talent in portraiture, ROB has an uncanny ability to reveal the depth and emotion within each subject. His portraits, characterized by a masterful play of light and shadow, tell stories that resonate beyond the confines of the frame. Whether capturing the vulnerability in a musician's eyes or the strength of a model's gaze, ROB's portraits are a testament to his artistry and connection with those in front of his lens.

Amidst his commercial endeavors, ROB remains dedicated to personal projects and book collaborations, each a testament to his creative vision. Several of these projects have earned him prestigious awards, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the world of contemporary photography.

ROB Walbers' lens is not just a tool for capturing moments; it's a bridge between cultures, a window into the human experience. His ongoing exploration of the visual medium ensures that his legacy extends beyond borders, telling stories that transcend time and resonate with audiences around the globe.