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FOREWORD Colours of Bhutan; a host of expressions could be used to evoke the natural and cultural beauty of Bhutan… yet the first-time visitor is struck primarily by the colour of this small Himalayan kingdom. With its snow-capped mountains, lakes and glaciers, forests, jungles and exceptional flora, Bhutan offers a natural environment of rare diversity. In this unique setting, the Bhutanese have created a world of colours, shades and hues that infuse their architecture, their daily life and their religious festivals. Their costumes and fabrics are an integral part of this colourful world, which leaves no room for the monotonous and drab. Crossing Bhutan from west to east or north to south is a real feast for the eyes. And it is a paradise for photographers. As elsewhere in the Himalayas, the gentle light of spring or autumn, the heavy skies of summer and the first snows of winter provide an endless range of subjects, constantly changing in shape and colour. Here, photography truly becomes a form of witness, a way of revealing the beauty of the environment but also a means of discovering the cultural identity of the country. Bhutan's culture and traditions are immensely rich and offer a limitless source of inspiration. And last but not least, the photographer can capture the character traits of the people - their omnipresent smiles and serene faces clearly expressing their deep faith in the words and teachings of Buddha. Perusing a photographic website makes us realise that pictures often speak a thousand words. Is there a lesson for politicians to learn here? Instead of endless pages of text trying to describe or convince, photography summarises, synthesises and takes us to the heart of the matter. It also invites us to travel and fires our imagination. May this website enrich its visitors as they discover a secret, unique and endearing country, a kingdom rich of many colours… Robert Dompnier,
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