Sacred Feathers

Photograph by Marco Vernaschi

In Argentina s Jujuy Province, the Suris, also known as Samilantes, are a cultural group within the Quechua community. This woman is Bel n Cruz. Her feathered costume represents the nandu, or rhea, sacred bird of the Suris. Photographer Marco Vernaschi s Biophilia Foundation looks to help indigenous groups preserve their cultural heritage by developing their own local economy through native products.

Vernaschi s pictures are featured in the April 2015 issue of National Geographic magazine. His series, Bitter Harvest, is also featured on our photography blog, Proof .