National Geographic photographer and explorer Kiliii Yüyan has documented a journey through Maine’s lakes, rivers, mountains, and coast [1, 2].
The project highlights the intersection of natural landscapes and cultural heritage to promote tourism for the Visit Maine campaign [1, 2]. By focusing on the state's waterways, the series connects the diverse geography of the region with the people who maintain its traditional crafts.
Yüyan's exploration includes stops in Rangeley, where he engaged in fly-fishing [1, 2]. The journey also took him to Newry to document the art of canoe-making, illustrating the state's enduring relationship with its river systems [1, 2]. These activities serve as a bridge between the environment and the local makers who rely on these resources for their livelihoods.
On the coastal side of the state, Yüyan visited Glidden Point Oyster Farms [1, 2]. This segment of the journey emphasizes the economic and ecological importance of the Atlantic coastline, a critical component of Maine's identity and industry [1, 2].
Throughout the expedition, Yüyan met with various artists and community members to capture the human element of the wilderness [1, 2]. The resulting video and article content aim to showcase the state's beauty through the eyes of a professional explorer, blending visual storytelling with cultural anthropology [1, 2].
The initiative focuses on the continuity of Maine's traditions, from the rugged mountains to the salty coast [1, 2]. By documenting these specific locations, the campaign seeks to attract visitors by emphasizing the authenticity of the local experience and the preservation of traditional skills [1, 2].
“Kiliii Yüyan has documented a journey through Maine’s lakes, rivers, mountains, and coast.”
This collaboration between National Geographic and Visit Maine leverages high-production storytelling to reposition the state as a destination for 'slow tourism.' By focusing on artisanal crafts like canoe-making and sustainable aquaculture, the campaign shifts the narrative from simple sightseeing to a deeper cultural immersion, aiming to drive economic growth in rural areas like Rangeley and Newry.
