Stories: Stories

In Conversation with Max Milligan : A Preview Of His Bolivian and Peruvian Photo-Workshops With Aracari We recently had the pleasure of interviewing photographer Max Milligan, who spoke to us about his life in Peru, love of photography, and of course, what to expect from his two highly anticipated photography-expeditions running next year to Bolivia and Peru - in conjunction with Aracari. Aracari: What came first, your love of Peru or photography? Max: I It was the mid-nineteen-eighties, as a young documentary cameraman, when I was first sent to Peru. I knew very little about the country, but the intense culture and diverse landscapes quickly seduced me to an extent that I decided not to leave. I was surrounded by natural wonders that inspired my passion for photography which then luckily turned into my career. During these formative years I opened the first pub in Cuzco. I became acquainted with many of the important local people. Everyone, from diplomats to generals, film crews, and shaman – would stop for a drink. Fast-forward to today, Cusco is my home from home. I’ve lived there for twenty-two out of the last thirty-five years and have so many good friends, including grown-up godchildren and also have a small farm near Ollantaytambo. A: What makes Peru so inspirational to you?   Max: Peru has twenty-eight of the thirty-two defined climates in the world, and of the one-hundred-and-four classified habitats, eight-four exist within its borders. From snowcapped peaks to sweltering jungle you can experience unparalleled ecological diversity – particularly in the South East of Peru -around the Sacred Valley region, where the workshop will take place. Cusco is small, colorful city that attracts an eclectic mix of visitors –most are on once in a lifetime trips. Honeymooners, wildlife documentary crews, internationally revered chefs seeking inspiration – the locals are very