Silent SENTINALS

Deadvlei, loosely translating to "dead marsh" is surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, reaching 300-400 meters in height. This vlei has long been cut off from the Tsauchab River by a large sand dune. This has resulted well-preserved camel thorn trees conserved by the extremely dry climate, prohibiting the trees from decaying.

RELICS of a TIME PAST

This series explores the photographic location of Deadvlei in the Namib-Naukluft Park, in Namibia. These ancient camel thorn trees, preserved due to the extremely dry conditions of the region, are the subject of this series. Kyle Goetsch focused on the shifting light patterns cast by the clouds above creating a truly unique collection of images.

Preserved through TIME

The preserved camel thorn trees in Deadvlei are believed to have died 600-700 years ago and have turned black to to scorching caused by the intense heat of the sun. The base of the vlei consists of white clay creating a stunning contrast between the trees, foreground, dunes and sky.

"Standing alone in Deadvlei amongst the ancient, preserved trees is one of the most memorable experiences I have as a photographer to date."

- Kyle Goetsch

Namib DESERT

The Namib desert, meaning "vast place" is considered the oldest desert in the world, having endured semi-arid conditions for roughly 55-80 million years.