4 minute read
A Story for the Traveller
Dark clouds gathered overhead, and a few rogue raindrops broke free, dotting the earth. A faint scent of petrichor filled the air, mingling with the hum of conversation. The scene was set: a gathering of travellers, united by their shared love for Namibia’s wild, vast, and enigmatic landscapes. Among them were those captivated by Kaokoland – a region far-flung, rugged, and mysterious.
That cloudy evening, we had come together to celebrate something extraordinary: the launch of The Stonemen: Flint and friends in Kaokoland, Venture Media's newest publication. Yet, this was no ordinary book launch. It was a celebration of a story that, for over a decade, has fascinated travellers from all corners of the globe.
The book follows Flint Firestone, a character whose journey takes him deep into the heart of Kaokoland. As Flint traverses the arid, untamed terrain, he encounters the enigmatic Stonemen – silent sentinels who blend seamlessly into the landscape. Through his journey, Flint discovers lessons in survival, the delicate balance of nature, and the profound need to protect our planet’s fragile beauty.
Together, these works breathed life into Flint’s story, offering glimpses of the Kaokoland landscape through the eyes of the Stonemen themselves.
The evening also unveiled a fine art exhibition featuring Jason Nott’s evocative photography and Jacquie Tarr’s intricate illustrations as seen in the book. Together, these works breathed life into Flint’s story, offering glimpses of the Kaokoland landscape through the eyes of the Stonemen themselves.
In an inspiring address, Jo Tagg reflected on his first encounter with the Stonemen – a solitary figure known as Walking Man, or as they dubbed him Dapper Stapper. He described him as a beacon of resilience, seamlessly blending into the landscape. Something that belongs there, not a mere visitor like the rest of us. A symbol of reflection and endurance. Over the years, Walking Man and his growing tribe of Stonemen have sparked wonder, debate, and an ever-deepening connection between travellers and Kaokoland.
The creator of the Stonemen remains anonymous – a deliberate choice that adds to the sculptures’ mystique. “The hand that guides,” as Jo has dubbed them. The artist’s work has sparked countless conversations, blog posts, and social media reflections. Yet, their motivation seems clear: a love for Kaokoland and a desire to inspire reflection, not through overt messaging but by creating something timeless and profound.
The author, Ron Swilling, gave the crowd a reading from the book’s introduction, captivating the audience with her evocative prose. Inspiring those who clutched their own copies to set off on an adventure amongst its pages. Her words brought the Stonemen to life, highlighting their role as “mute ambassadors” of Kaokoland – a landscape shaped by cycles of abundance and scarcity, beauty and hardship.
For those who read the book, the journey into Kaokoland has already begun, even if they are never lucky enough to visit in person. Through vivid stories, stunning images, and intricate illustrations, The Stonemen invites both seasoned adventurers and armchair travellers to explore the region’s unique mystique.
The Stonemen remind us that in a world of constant change, some things – like their quiet presence – remain steadfast. They call us to reflect on our place in the vastness of nature and, perhaps, to embark on our own journeys of discovery.
- Elzanne McCulloch
The Stonemen exhibition, featuring the works of Jacquie Tarr and Jason Nott, will run until 14 December at BELLHAUS Atelier & Galerie, 18 Bell Street in Windhoek.
To order your copy of The Stonemen: Flint and friends in Kaokoland, visit www.venture-events.com or email bonn@venture.com.na
