ELLA MAI DOWNES

The backwaters of Kerala, South India are a magical place. Silently gliding through narrow passages on a canoe, visitors can pass by inhabitants going about their daily lives in this fascinating area. The Keralan waters that the residents live on are their source of food, income, tourism, as well as laundrettes, bathtubs and dishwashers.

 

I noticed on my journey through these channels that the washing lines of homes co-ordinated with the houses they came from. The colours of the clothing and paint matched, like you could almost tell who lived where by their outfits. 

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In Western society, trends dictate choices in clothing and homes, and we tend to be more subtle and safe in our tones. In this secluded area, residents aren't as affected by fast-moving fashions so seem to just go by their own tastes. They know what they like and surround themselves by their favourite hues.