thibault gerbaldi
An Alpaca Farming Community
This series celebrates the rich culture of high-altitude Andean communities in Pampallacta, Peru, where alpaca farming forms the cornerstone of life and tradition. For generations, these communities have maintained a deep symbiotic relationship with alpacas, which provide them with fiber, sustenance, and even companionship. Beyond their practical value, alpacas hold profound cultural significance, woven into the very identity of Andean life. Despite its cultural and economic importance, alpaca farming faces mounting challenges. Climate change forces farmers to move to higher altitudes in search of suitable grazing lands, while mining operations encroach on the natural habitats vital to their herds. These pressures threaten not just livelihoods but also the fragile ecosystem that supports the alpacas. Yet, Andean communities remain resilient, adapting to these adversities with ingenuity and determination. They embrace sustainable practices, collaborate on conservation efforts, and pass their knowledge to younger generations to ensure the survival of their traditions. Through these efforts, they continue to embody a timeless connection between humans and their environment, safeguarding both their culture and the majestic alpacas that sustain it.
