Pieter Hugo Wins the Discovery Award at Arles, There is some justice in the World

So I have a bit of a long post today because I have two fantastic stories to tell.
Story the First:
I had my third portfolio review yesterday. Considering the type of work being celebrated here, I didnt really expect much. I was truly shocked by the excited possitive responses I got. Everyone said that I am very strange, I think being in a strange land amplified this. But come to think of it I am weird no matter where I go.
They were especially drawn to the personal narratives, and said that dealing with this content with such a high level of execution is very original. Like Sophie Calle but more technicaly accomplished.
One guy said the work is like a Tim Burton poem, I guess I will have to read some.
So representatives from two festivals in France have my card, and will folow my work through the internet (Fisher you hqve my undying love). Sorry if this sounds like bragging Im just excited.
Story the Second:
I rode my velo over the river Rhine to check out the local cemetary, that was quite the experience. I continued my exploring and came upon an abandoned trqin station by the river! Of course I had to investigate. I climb this hill and as soon as I get to the threshold I realise that this is used by the gypsys. I had seen a caravan and horse earlier in the week, so when I saw the horse droppings everywhere I realised what I found. I was a little nervous but it was clear the place was totally empty. I explored for a while and found a baby doll with its face smashed in. then 20 or 30 feet away I found its ripped off face. I hooked it on a plant growing out of a stone wall, and photographed it. Then I took it with me so I could photograph it again elsewhere with the 4x5. Subsequently I found the perfect spot, the wall of an abandoned church.
So I guess I understand why they say Im weird.
Hope you are all well; I know Sarai and Fisher are dying of envy as they read this. Oh yeah I made a contact for some shows in Serbia, apparently Gucha is like a country jamboree to most Serbians.
My love to all, M.