Photographer Stuart Dee returned to the islands many times over the last 13 years to create this new book. He will show images from the book, together with some that didn't make it and some behind the scenes images.

Books and the photographer will be available after the show for signing.

Book Description:

The Philippines Rediscovered II is a complete update of the classic coffee-table book on the country.

The theme of this book is the rediscovery of the beauty of the Philippines as seen through the eyes of a native son, returning after a long absence since childhood.

Born and raised as a child in the Philippines before immigrating to Canada, the photographer returned after twenty years with a unique perspective on the country. He spent years covering dozens regions, from the bustling capital to remote, untouched wilderness areas. The book, The Philippines Rediscovered, was awarded “Best Book on the Country” by the Philippine Department of Tourism.

The Philippines Rediscovered II is the new, more comprehensive and updated version. To create this volume, the photographer returned 16 times over a span of 13 years. He made dozens of trips throughout the archipelago, travelling to additional islands and provinces, from the southernmost island of Tawi-Tawi to the northernmost province of Batanes. The photographer wanted to create a more personal, intimate, artistic portrait of the country. It’s not a typical tourist oriented book, nor a ‘day in the life’ photojournalistic record. He captures the stunning beauty of the landscape and the quiet, simple beauty of everyday life. It is not a documentary but a nostalgic remembrance and celebration of the Philippines.

No other photographer can offer the same perspective. He alone has the combination of a native’s natural affinity for the people, the country and its culture, and—because of his long absence—a “foreigner’s” fascination and curiosity. Together with his sense of color and form, the body of images is truly unique—a personal impression. Through his fresh vision, foreigners and Filipinos alike 'rediscover' the Philippines.

The book’s heart is the images. Short captions provide some interesting cultural, historical and anecdotal information.