Morning worker, Tay Ninh, Vietnam

Description

Rubber was compared to “white gold” which brought prosperity to locals in Tay Ninh, a province in the Southeast region of Vietnam on the border with Cambodia. Rubber trees produce the highest amount of latex in the early morning. Therefore, everyday at 2AM, workers have to go to the rubber forest to tap the trees for latex. About 7AM, when the bowls are filled, they go to each tree to pour latex into large barrels, then transfer them to the car tank to carry to the factory. 

  This photo was published on National Geographic Your Shot – Aug 31, 2018

In this captivating fine-art print, the lens captures the essence of a daily ritual that unfolds in the heart of Tay Ninh, Vietnam—a province nestled on the border with Cambodia. The photograph delves into the profound relationship between the locals and the rubber trees, portraying the significance of this “white gold” that has bestowed prosperity upon the community.

The scene unfolds in the tranquil darkness of the early morning, a time when the rubber trees are at their most giving. The artist skillfully captures the delicate interplay of shadows and moonlight, creating a mesmerizing ambiance that draws the viewer into the heart of this labor-intensive process. The composition skillfully balances the visual elements, allowing the viewer to appreciate the beauty in the everyday life of these dedicated workers.

At the forefront of the print, the silhouette of workers emerges, their figures adorned with the tools of their trade. The image resonates with the palpable dedication as these laborers embark on their daily routine at the remarkable hour of 2 AM. With precision, they tap the rubber trees, collecting the lifeblood—latex. The artist adeptly freezes the moment when the bowls are brimming with the liquid gold, ready to be meticulously transferred to large barrels.

As the sun ascends on the horizon, a soft glow bathes the scene, casting a warm hue on the workers and their surroundings. The print encapsulates the tireless journey from forest to factory, a narrative woven with the threads of hard work and resilience. This fine-art piece not only captures a fleeting moment in time but also invites the viewer to contemplate the symbiotic relationship between nature, community, and prosperity in the heart of Vietnam’s rubber industry.