Vade Mecum is the title of a long-term photographic essay by the Belgian documentary photographer Jan Bierkens. Literally it means 'go with me' in Latin, yet today the term is being used more often as a synonym for a 'referential book' or a 'useful object', constantly carried on one's person.



All the photographs were taken within a period of five years, during which time the author travelled to some of the most remote corners of the world, in search for the appearance of authenticity through the eye of a lens. The result is a fascinating collection of honest and compelling images, exposed and composed with the upright intention to inspire someone.