Bird Man is part of a nomadic tribe that wanders the ancient landscapes of Europe. Each member embodies an animal spirit—his is the bird of prey. The feathers on his head, the markings on his face, and his heavy cloak all signal his role as the tribe’s hunter. Silent and watchful, he moves through the wilderness to provide and protect, a symbol of survival in a harsh, untamed world.

Photographed at the 2014 Zinneke parade event in Brussels, Belgium. The image was retouched and a blended texture was added to achieve a painterly effect. (May 2014)

• My other portraits and scenes from the Zinneke Parade