Maluku

Hermandari Kartowisastro, an inspirational woman in Indonesian photography, defies ageing stereotypes by following her vocation with unwavering zeal. At an age when many people opt to slow down, Hermandari began on an incredible trip, capturing the world’s beauty through her lens. Her tale is one of resilience, ingenuity, and an insatiable desire to explore.

What inspires you to travel and capture the world through your lens, especially at a time when many people slow down with age?

“I’ve enjoyed travelling since I was young. After my children finished school, I had the time to pursue my passion for travelling to exotic countries. Initially, I felt that something was lacking from my visits; images of these places hardly reflected their beauty. This realisation set off my career into photography. The advent of the digital era made it much easier to observe rapid results, which fueled my desire even more. At the age of 68, I participated in a two-week photography course. In 2023, I improved my talents by learning drone photography, which has added a new dimension to my work and allowed me to shoot magnificent aerial views. Photography has offered me great joy during my senior years.”

Are there any photographers or artists who have influenced your style or approach to photography?

“Henky Kuntjoro, I met him on a liveaboard diving trip in 2008 and was taken by his underwater and on-land photography, particularly his black-and-white compositions. Michael Kenna, a world-renowned B&W landscape photographer, has significantly influenced me with his lighting and austere compositions. These two photographers had a significant impact on my approach. While I experiment with numerous genres, I am most drawn to landscapes, simplicity, and minimalism. Portrait photography under Sandy Wijaya’s tutelage, as well as my natural affinity for art, particularly abstract and minimalist painting, impacted my style. I adore painters like Jeihan Sukmantoro, A.D. Pirous, and Umi Dahlan, whose works grace my home.”

Were there any challenges you faced in learning a new creative skill at a later stage in life, and how did you overcome them?

“Initially, learning photography was not difficult; it simply took practice and memorising procedures. However, in recent years, memory lapses have become a challenge. To prevent this, I take notes, edit my images on a regular basis, and play mentally demanding games like Sudoku and word puzzles.”

Do you have any exciting photography projects or adventures planned for the future? Why are they so exciting?

“I have various travel and photography ambitions that I aim to carry out. It’s always exciting to see new locations, learn about different cultures, and meet new people. This year, I’m particularly looking forward to going to Namibia for its spectacular vistas and deserts, chasing the aurora borealis in North Norway, exploring Kyrgyzstan, and visiting Oman.”

How do you curate the themes and locations for your photography tours to ensure a unique and impactful experience?

“Researching and reading about potential destinations is essential. With the abundance of information available nowadays, it is simple to identify intriguing sites. I look for appealing images of these areas, calculate the best times to travel, and pick what equipment to carry.

Was there a particular destination or moment during your Mahacaraka trip that stood out for you as a photographer?

“Yes, Lo Manthang, or Mustang, in northern Nepal, was very remarkable. The journey was thrilling, with a sense of danger. We had to prepare for fewer facilities while being healthy at high altitudes. After a nerve-racking flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, which came near to a crash two days later, we chose to travel overland. The three-day Tiji Festival was a highlight, providing rich experiences and captivating moments.”

Looking back at your incredible career, which photography project has been the most rewarding for you and why?

“My participation in the 16th ArtJog in 2023 was extremely fulfilling. I was happy to be chosen, and even more thrilled when one of my images from a Mahacaraka trip to Mexico in 2022 sold. La Catrina’s portrait, which was shown and sold, retains a particular place in my heart. ArtJog is a famous exhibition, and it was an honour to be picked as one of the few photographers, particularly as a woman.”

What advice would you give to aspiring travel photographers who want to join photography tours, especially at a later stage in life?

“First and foremost, maintain good health and a positive spirit. Exercise regularly and live a healthy lifestyle. Positivity is key, especially when travelling to exotic or underprivileged countries. Embrace the local culture and find joy in the unique experiences it offers, even if it differs from your own beliefs.”

Hermandari Kartowisastro continues to explore the world and capture its beauty, reminding us that age is just a number. Her story exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and the delight of continuous learning. For anyone feeling the weight of age or uncertainty, Hermandari’s narrative shines a light on the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their ambitions. Let her adventure inspire you to pursue your passions, explore the unknown, and live life to the fullest, no matter what stage of life you are in.