This may seem like the wrong time to propose a project like this, or it may be the exact right time. As the planet and mankind face dire circumstances, we need to address the reasons for this situation.
We, as a species, are out of sync with nature. We have taken a wrong turn and need to reflect, to find a way forward.
Devolution will provide an artistic photo journal documenting an American model’s first experience in the African wild. The book will depict a journey into some of South Africa’s last wild lands, to reconnect the audience with nature and the appreciation for wildlife in the natural world.
The book will be proceeded by a social media campaign that will provide a ‘live experience’ of the journey and behind the scenes of the production of the book.
People are craving authentic experiences, searching for meaning and longing to reconnect.
“No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced” – David Attenborough
The book is aimed at a generation that are searching for ways to save the planet but are out of touch with the wild. We live in a time of compulsive consumption where advertising has infiltrated society, creating a virtual world that dictates our needs… disconnecting us with reality.
This project is aimed at inciting social change through experiencing the beauty and harmony of the natural world, and the realization that not everything is disposable.
Kenzie Kersen and Justin Cleaver form the ideal partnership to produce this project. Kenzie is a twenty four your old American that is passionate about the planet and speaks directly to the millenials. Justin is a forty seven year old South African that has years of experience in the African wild and possesses the necessary skills, being a renowned wildlife and fashion photographer.
Devolution will feature forty eight pages of fine art and reportage images, all photographed on vintage analog cameras.
The idea to use analog is to create a feeling, to capture a timeless moment, to add a touch of nostalgia, but mostly to look cool.
Kenzie Kersen will play the protagonist in this wildlife adventure, adding a touch of relatable beauty to the safari.
The content of the book will cover all key points; the appreciation of the natural world, the balanced cycle of nature, and wildlife conservation, but will cover the topics subtly so as not to force the point home.
‘Devolution’ will be available as an eBook aimed at reaching as wide an audience as possible, but the book will also be available in hard copy as a collectors edition.
The journey will visit two key regions in South Africa; the greater Kruger National Park and Zulu Land.
The two regions are selected for their historic and cultural value, as well as their bio diversity, abundant wildlife, wildlife conservation and stunning landscapes.
The story will visit:
– the last of the great ‘Tuskers’ (elephant with large tusks) in Southern Africa, at Tembe.
– the estuaries at Kosi Bay with their mangroves and sand forests.
– the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, the first proclaimed game park in Africa with a rich history in rhino conservation.
– a wild cat rehabilitation centre with cheetah, serval, caracal.
– an endangered species centre with cheetah, wild dog and rhino.
– Phinda Private Game Reserve to learn about a successful conservation and ecotourism strategy.
– a week long rustic experience living in the world famous Kruger.
The idea to produce the book ‘live’ on social media is to provide as much of an experience for the audience to connect with as possible.
Everybody loves an intimate and authentic story that they can relate to and follow.
The ‘live’ social media campaign would provide a behind the scenes view of everyday experiences and the making of the photo book.
The ‘Devolution’ social media campaign will utilize the strengths of the leading social media platforms; Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
Preemptive posts on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram will draw initial attention to the trip prior to departure.
Daily video posts on Facebook and Instagram stories, and daily podcasts on YouTube will be posted for the duration of the trip.
Outtake images from the trip will be posted on Facebook and Instagram after the trip is completed to build anticipation for the release of the eBook.
The ‘Devolution’ eBook will be launched a month after the completion of the trip. The release of the book will be promoted on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
A YouTube video will be launched to coincide with the release of the eBook.
Devolution, the book and the marketing plan, will take you into the wild, making you devolve back to your primal state.
The book will provide a rich visual narrative of the journey accompanied by an informative and intimate social media campaign.
The book and social media campaign are the first step with the intention to produce a followup book ‘Wild and Free’, shortly after completion of ‘Devolution’.
All financial support for the production of this project will be greatly appreciated. We have carefully calculated the minimum production costs for what is needed, any additional funds will go into making the production bigger and better, or towards our next book.
