The Souls of Our Earth

• Photographer
  Christopher Schaller
• Prize
  Silver in Nature / Trees

Bristlecone Pines are among the oldest living beings and the oldest trees on earth. They may reach an age up to 4’800 years. Due to the high altitude, cold temperatures, dry climate and strong winds these trees grow extremely slowly. They live so long that their bark facing the weather exposed side gradually erodes and reveals its inner core while the bark facing south continues to prosper. Visiting these Bristlecone Pines has been a longtime dream of mine. One day it became true. I stood in awe in front of these magical beings, the guardians of wisdom on our planet.