Silk Grass

It is beautiful. It may look surreal. Seen from above, the plants in the landscape look caressing forms, like silk, like a soft, green velvet.

It is a species of the genus carex (sedge family), which is used to make handicrafts. Due to its flexibility and strength, they are used to make hats, bags, mats... and in Vietnam, where the photo was taken, there is a long tradition.

These are workers from the province of Quang Nam. At first glance, they seem to be elements of a plastic art work. Small porcelain figurines. Idyllic creatures.

But this work is not easy. It is exhaustive. The greatest beauty is that of sacrifice.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff