Monk Chat

The beauty of travelling with a camera is that you have a universal instrument for making a connection with people. Hop was a fascinating gentle, kind-hearted and reflective young man who was making sense of the world through his study. He allowed me to photograph him without hestitation.

Hop commented that he travelled to other places via his 'world globe'. Hop had never been physically outside Chiang-Mai yet he was a worldly and spiritual monk with wisdom beyond his years. I liked the stance of Hop in this photo as well as his hand position in holding his papers. His facial expression shows his inquisitive and gentle nature.

Hop was very expressive about his life as a Monk. He had just begun learning English and enjoyed conversing with us during a 'monk chat'. The Buddhist University have a designated area outside their university for interacting with outsiders which they call a 'monk chat'.

The chat provided an insight into the fascinating world of a Thai monk called Hop. This photo captured his enthusiasm and passion for his beliefs. He was highly animated and often described his beliefs through his expressive hands.