ABOUT THE PROJECT
Today, precarious political situations exist along ancient trade routes around the world. Afghanistan, the Middle East, Pakistan and India are all involved in local wars that are on the brink of escalation. In the United States and Europe, we are witnessing a dangerous “us-versus-them” rhetoric characterized by the normalization of xenophobic language among our political leadership.
The mission of Marla Mossman and the Peace Caravan Project is to promote cultural exchanges in an increasingly divisive global climate. Through storytelling and photography, The Peace Caravan seeks to deepen an understanding of other cultures and to celebrate our common humanity.
The Peace Caravan project begins with Marla Mossman’s journey across the ancient trade routes which originated as a series of intersecting trails that traversed southwest China, Central Asia, the lowlands of Mesopotamia, Jerusalem, the Mediterranean, and ultimately ended up in Rome.
Photographer and artist, Marla Mossman and the Peace Caravan Project are traveling solo from Jerusalem, Israel to X’ian, China by car, foot, horse, mule and camel to document places of historical and religious significance. In the quest to explore the heritage and its spirituality and the connection to Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. Mossman has already taken eight expeditions to photograph China, Egypt, India, Turkey, Afghanistan and the Middle Eastern countries of Syria, Jordan, Israel and most recently Uganda.
Mossman is optimistic that by sharing photographs and stories from her travels that viewers will find a new appreciation for the cultural of these nations and that a new way to peace will reveal itself. Her photos capture the people along the journey in their daily lives and remind us that even though we have differences, we share similar loves, hopes and dreams. Her writings report the intimate moments she experiences with these people along the way. In her blog she shares graphic experiences, her soul searching moments, sometimes sleepless nights and also the many joys she finds as she visits these historical places.
When the photographs are viewed as a collection, on the website, in the photography books and on display in the exhibitions and at the lectures; the Peace Caravan endeavors to inform and inspire others to achieve understanding, respect, and acceptance. This twenty first century Caravan provides a network of individuals exchanging ideas, cultures and traditions as they have for over 2,500 years.
The Peace Caravan Project is funded by voluntary contributions. Donations are accepted in any amount by on-line crdit card or by check. Your financial contribution will underwrite the creation and completion of the photography for exhibit, the development and production of the interactive website and the Educational outreach.
All gifts make a difference, any amount donated with be appreciated
Marla Mossman, Peace Caravan Project Founder/Artistic Director