wu  wei  studio

photos · films · stories BY alon cohen

. . . an explorer of cultures and the natural world, Alon is driven by the transformative power of mindful travel and storytelling. He seeks to inspire others to deepen their understanding of the ecological self: discovering who they are when they recognize their interconnectedness with all life.

Through his nomadic production house, Wu Wei Studio, he integrates the Taoist principle of "effortless action" into thoughtful and intuitive content creation.

Specializing in visual narratives, Wu Wei Studio helps tourism boards, NGOs, travel brands and luxury resorts connect deeply with their audiences through immersive photography, video storytelling, and creative exhibitions.

Alon’s work celebrates artisans, farmers, and healers, exploring the connection between people, land, and tradition, while highlighting sustainability and cultural preservation.

10 day fam-trip accompanying the marketing team of Terranova Tourism Marketing while exploring the mesmerizing countryside of the land of a thousand hills. To promote this destination as authentically as possible, the campaign was based around a 3-day roaming exhibition throughout Israel, featuring Alon’s photos printed on 1.5 x 1 meter canvas prints, which were used as a backdrop for a unique pop-up performance with Rwandan dancers.

Alon’s work from Rwanda has also been featured in print & digital magazines of Arkia Airlines, Lametayel, Masa Acher, Ynet and social media handles of O&O, RDB, tour operators & more.

The prints from the exhibition were sold to the Embassy of Rwanda in Israel.

In Seychelles, often known for its luxury resorts, Alon was invited to uncover the lesser-seen cultural and raw side of these islands. Documenting the vibrant local life, traditions, and untouched landscapes, Alon captured a side of Seychelles that contrasts with its laid-back resort image. During this trip, Alon joined a think-tank team to propose new marketing strategies, focusing on promoting authentic, community-driven experiences.

Besides a gallery showcasing the rich culture, people, and natural beauty that make Seychelles a unique destination beyond its beaches, an introspective short form video series was experimented with using Alon’s philosophical inquiries from his travel journal.

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In the mist-covered hills of Meghalaya, traditional wisdom thrives through regenerative, community-based tourism initiatives. Over 1.5 months, Alon captured the essence of local life, from artisans weaving eco-friendly Eri-silk, a sustainable fashion crafted without harming silkworms, to village women foraging for medicinal plants and mushrooms in Khweng, where forest-to-table cuisine is served at a local holistic café.

The vibrant Iewduh market in Shillong reveals the daily life of the Khasi and Garo tribes, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. These images highlight the deep connection between Meghalaya’s people, land, and sustainable traditions.

This is an on-going project, with a film production in magic realism style connecting stories of ancestral wisdom from the three tribes currently in the pre-production phase.

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In Phuket, Thailand, Alon documented the implementation of the COVID-19 Sandbox Program, capturing the island’s careful reopening to tourism. Alongside this, he explored community-based initiatives, local sailing opportunities, and the high-end resort and restaurant scene.

Through his lens, Alon showcased the resilience of Phuket’s tourism industry, balancing safety with luxury and sustainability. The content was used for PR and media campaigns under representation efforts, highlighting Phuket as safe destination for the Israeli tourism niche.

His work brought to light the intersection of local culture, community engagement, and high-end travel in a challenging global context.

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In Mauritius, Alon collaborated with the Beachcomber Resort chain and their representatives in Israel, Terranova to document their sustainable efforts. The project showcased the island’s unique blend of luxury and eco-consciousness, from hiking in lush jungles to experiencing the country’s rich, multicultural cuisine and the underwater wonders.

Alon captured green start-up initiatives, including the use of sugarcane-based water bottles to replace plastic, alongside community-based projects where the resort supports local artisans.

Through his lens, he highlighted how Beachcomber Resorts is leading the way in combining sustainability with unforgettable guest experiences, showcasing Mauritius as a model for eco-tourism.

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Alon collaborates with boutique travel companies as a behind-the-scenes photographer, accompanying VIPs & private groups on tailored journeys. Lately, he documented solidarity visits to the regions affected by the aftermath of the October 7th attacks.

Alon provides a visual narrative of each group's unique trip, documenting historical explorations and cultural experiences with a discreet yet insightful perspective, delivering personal, candid memories. His work captures intimate, authentic moments that bring to life the richness of Israel’s landscapes, heritage, and people, while allowing guests to fully engage with the country’s stories without distraction.

In addition, Alon has partnered with brands, NGOs, hostels, municipalities, and startups to create impactful content that highlights Israel’s cultural landscape, social initiatives, and vibrant communities.

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In Egypt, Alon completed three assignments: two for Abraham Hostels in Nuweiba and one for a scuba diving retreat in Dahab. His photography showcased the Sinai Peninsula’s serene beauty, from the tranquil beaches and Bedouin food culture to the vibrant underwater landscapes.

Alon captured both the natural beauty and the adventurous spirit of the region, documenting a retreat’s diving experiences. The images were used to promote future trips, highlighting Dahab’s appeal as a premier diving destination. His work brought to life the deep connection between the landscape, sea, and the diving community throughout the Sinai peninsula.

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In Cyprus, Alon documented a transformative retreat hosted by Wisdom to Lead in both photo and video formats. Set in the enchanting Secret Forest, the retreat provided a serene backdrop for personal and spiritual growth. Alon captured the immersive experience of the participants as well as the natural beauty of the secluded forest, creating media that not only promoted the retreat but also showcased the unique appeal of the location. His work emphasized the harmony between the retreat’s teachings and the peaceful environment, helping to promote future events and the location as an ideal wellness destination.

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On assignment in Lisbon for Apricoat, a clothing brand that emphasizes practical adventure gear, to capture their latest outdoor collection in Lisbon.

The vibrant streets, intricate colored tile patterns, and urban landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for showcasing the brand's versatile, eco-conscious apparel. Through this photo series, Alon focused on highlighting the blend of functionality and style, with the jackets and accessories seamlessly fitting into both city and travel settings.

Each shot aimed to reflect Apricoat's commitment to adventure-ready, sustainable fashion that fits the modern explorer's lifestyle. The collection emphasizes comfort and practicality, perfect for urban explorers and nature lovers alike.

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koh phangan

Living part-time in Koh Pangan, Thailand, Alon collaborates with yogis, artists and models for personalized photography sessions in the serene landscapes of the island, offering personalized photo-therapy sessions too.

Specializing in capturing the essence of mindfulness and creative expression, these sessions blend natural beauty with artistry, creating unique visuals that reflect personal journeys and the island's tranquil energy."

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  • You are an aperture through which the universe is looking at and exploring itself

    Alan Watts

  • Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

    Lao Tzu

  • Through our eyes, the universe is perceiving itself. Through our ears, the universe is listening to its harmonies

    Alan Watts

  • We are the witnesses through which the universe becomes conscious of its glory, of its magnificence.

    Alan Watts

Music in the soul can be heard across the cosmos.

Each month, unique musical masterpieces from around the world are curated & shared in this space. Let’s connect to our shared humanity, transcend boundaries & foster cultural understanding.

September 2024 // Meet Ignacio María Gómez, an enchanting singer & traveler, bringing together the South American and African continents, crafting a new musical Pangea. His deep, rhythmic mantras invite listeners to a shared journey of introspection.