How the Buddha Brought Us Together

JOSH BULRISS is a traveling photographer. Before heading to Thailand for the Buddha Project, he had no idea that he would find a soulmate for his travels. This is the story of Josh and Tara, entwined with photography and the Buddha.

- JOSH BULRISS

After the passing of my mother in 2014, I decided to embark on a focused photography project called the Buddha Project. The aim was to discover and photograph some of the world’s most intriguing and unique statues and temples, capturing their essence. With a deep-rooted interest in traveling Asia and photographing subjects that evoke a sense of peace, this project held a special significance. My mother had always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. She would have been thrilled to witness their realization.

The plan was to begin in Thailand, the gateway to Southeast Asia. Given the extensive time I had spent there, I knew it would serve as the perfect starting point. The country boasts an abundance of breathtaking temples and ancient statues, offering an incredible opportunity for photography. Recognizing the potential benefits of a local guide, I sought assistance from the local community through a chat site. To my delight, the first person I contacted agreed to help me explore Bangkok for a couple of days. The more we conversed, the more our travel plans expanded. Eventually, we decided to embark on a three-week journey across central Thailand.

Upon landing in Bangkok, I anticipated meeting Tararat. Initially, we spent a couple of days exploring the city before setting out to discover the small towns and villages scattered throughout this ancient Buddhist country.