Faces and Places in Java, Indonesia (Part Two)

The primary thing that sticks out in my mind on my long journey through Java, is the winding roads that were coupled with gluing my face and camera to the window. This made for a dizzying experience. The bus was well air-conditioned and pretty nice, so no chickens in the lap. Picture this: I'm trying to take pictures of the amazing imagery passing me by, so I'm looking sideways out the window. Add to that the frequent amount of traffic which is being shoved out of the way by our Nascar convoy.

Java, Indonesia

The roads would often get smaller and smaller so I had to battle between the desire to photograph... and watch in horror, as the tiny little cars would literally be hanging on to a sheer strip of gravel as they struggled to keep from falling off the roads into Java oblivion. I can't even imagine the warm feelings these poor drivers were having for us as we forced our way through their small towns and roads. But enough about that. I wanted to make this blog post about showing you the people and images of Java as we passed through towns and villages, so there won't be much writing this time... but I hope you enjoy the (blurry bus window) images.

Java, Indonesia

The first thing that I began to notice in Java was the constant use of pastel colors in painting homes and businesses. This also seemed to carry over into clothing. Also, while I didn't get a lot of photos of them, it seems to be common for most businesses to have glass containers for selling food products. If you look at the photo above, you will see an empty one that says "Beli Emas" (haven't a clue), but these were everywhere and usually filled with mysterious treats. Often times, when you are photographing people, the adults will look away in shyness, but kids will generally just stare you down and laugh or smile (although this little guy seems to be lost in thought).

Java, Indonesia

This was one of my favorite house pictures that I captured in Java. I realize that it's just a simple framed house, but there is something intriguing about the combination of pastel green (exact same color as the door in the first photo), the deep purple door and the lady sitting on the front porch. I also love the laundry hanging out to dry. Considering it was raining constantly, I'm not sure why she felt that her clothes were going to be doing any good there.

Java, Indonesia

These guys were funny. What an eclectic group of characters. They all have completely different expressions on their faces and poses. I love it when people look right into the camera, it captures much more of their personality. I grew up in Oklahoma. It was not uncommon for people to put anything and everything in their front yard, rather than store it in a proper place. I believe Jeff Foxworthy (Comedian) said that "You know you're a Redneck if...you have more appliances in the front yard, than in the kitchen". I'm mentioning this because it seemed to be the norm for people in Java to pile things out front and all over the place. I just find that funny since it reminds me of growing up.. and as a Virgo....well, why can't they just organize!!

Java, Indonesia

These little shops were always interesting. If you look to the left of the photo, you can see the gasoline cans sitting there. It was very common to see gallons of gas being sold like this. I assume it's more for the vast amount of motorcycles everywhere. My mother would have never let me near that many gallons of gasoline in such a state of boredom as this little one sitting there. But then again, I guess that's the difference between boys and girls.

Java, Indonesia

More kids running around everywhere, but not in school. Not that they should be, but I often wonder why half of them are in school and half are not. If I had to guess, it's probably the same system as some other countries where they spilt the day into two groups. Why couldn't they do that when I was growing up? A half day would have been just fine with me.

Java, Indonesia

I think that I'm being sneered at here. I'm wondering who's more curious about who here, but it's not my fault that they happened to be sitting in front of the perfect backdrop for a photograph. Not to mention the great Bell-bottoms, spiked hair on the one guy and I swear, a blue flower pinned to the shirt of the other. Perfect shot!!

Java, Indonesia

This is a literal translation of "Carrying around a spare tire" (yes, I had to go there). Okay, if I worked at a tire shop and I was bored, I'd put a tire tube around my waste also. What?? Is there really something else to do there?

Java, Indonesia

Something just dawned on this guy. I don't know what, but such a great expression. Every shop in Java is dedicated to motorcycle repair. Have a burger, get an oil change. Get your hair cut..new tires?? I don't know if this is a comment on how Indonesians are obsessive about motorcycle maintenance, or a comment about the lack of motorcycle maintenance.

Java, Indonesia

That's right, you're late for class..whenever that is. I have no idea what those shops are selling behind our galloping friends, but apparently you can buy a lot of it.

Java, Indonesia

Is it me, or would this make a perfect cover for a rock album? It seems like every album cover I've seen where band members pretend not to be looking at the camera with anything other than that "I'd rather be rocking" look. Also, they apparently found another use for the odd tire. That must be why the previous guy was holding on to his collection with such defiance.

Java, Indonesia

Need I say anything at all about this photo? I didn't think so.

Java, Indonesia

Seriously, what are these two up to?? Even the driver's hair is rebellious. Someone's mom is going to be really mad when they get home. Maybe it's the cops right behind us with their flashing lights on. Just a habitual reaction?

Java, Indonesia

Okay, this one's just titled "Obstinate Chicken". If you're going to strut away, you might as well make a statement. I'm sure the Rooster said something wrong...and has no idea what.

Java, Indonesia

I'm really scared of this guy, maybe that's why they're making him work alone in the field.

Java, Indonesia

This one's training for Cirque Du Soleil. Nothing like a little multi-tasking with a tiny bicycle and an umbrella.

Java, Indonesia

Some dudes, some wheel barrels and an embroidered Betty Boop bag (click photo to enlarge). Perfect place to end. This was all in good fun, no disrespect meant.