Beyond Borders Photography is a venue for Robert Leutheuser's photographs from the greater Middle East.
I am an independent photographer and traveler, first visiting the region in 1997. Beginning in 2001 I have traveled near-annually throughout the greater Middle East, always including the Kurdish peoples, including the Yezidis, in my explorations.
As a guest, a friend, and a student, I am a cultural photographer of the unheralded - the matrix of humanity - who are overshadowed by tragic drama and violence. It is these people, who despite the hardships of place, have no choice but to live their lives to the best of their abilities. They often flourish against the odds. They are the extraordinary ordinary.
Individually my photographs tell stories that extend well beyond the frame; collectively they are a novel – in this case of the Kurdish people in the first decade of the 21st century.
I sincerely thank all those who have welcomed me into their homes and lives, affording me intimate experiences, images, and often, lasting friendships.
Robert Leutheuser
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