8/7/2026
Living in South Korea, I am working on a new second printing of 30 Silverglyphics.
The local culture and national parks have beome my playground, including the landscape of Mungyeong in North Gyeongsang Province seen here in this video
Press play and listen to Jesse Mulligan's interview with me on the Heading Off - to the Silk Road segment of Radio New Zealand's popular show - Afternoons
All copies of the first printing have been sold
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30 Silverglyphics
A Journey Along the Silk Road
From the preface
“Unfolding a map in Xian, China, my vague travels at once took on a purpose..."
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Stephen Draaijer as he transports you to one of history's most legendary routes: the Silk Road. The very name conjures images of distant lands, exotic bazaars, dangerous deserts and snow capped mountains, and this book is your key to exploring it all.
Within the pages of 30 Silverglyphics - A Journey Along the Silk Road, you will discover:
At the heart of this book lies the artistry of black and white photography. Each image is a crafted "Silverglyhic" - a tribute to monochrome's ability to reveal texture, light and emotion. Through these visuals you will witness the haunting ruins, landscapes and above all intimate portraits of the people who inhabit the Silk Road's ancient lands today.
Beyond the breathtaking imagery, Stephen conveys his passion for the Silk Road's rich tapestry through compelling writing. You will learn about the powerful civilizations that rose and thrived along the route, and the cultural exchange they fostered. But, this isn't just a historical survey, it is a deeply personal journey, and Stephen's unique perspective will carry you along. Become absorbed by first hand impressions of the sights, sounds and sensations, as well as encounters and connections made with a diverse range of people he met along the way. These personal narratives add a meaningful human element to the vast historical backdrop.
30 Silverglyhics - A Journey Along the Silk Road is an experience - a love letter to the spirit of human connection, the richness of our shared heritage and the timeless allure of exploration.
Don't miss your chance to own one of only 40 first edition soft cover copies, numbered and signed by the author. Order the book today and begin your own unforgettable journey.
“Unfolding a map in Xian, China, my vague travels at once took on a purpose. After studying the city grid, I turned the map over and skimmed the notes. A large rectangular inset map caught my eye - its label read "The Legendary Silk Road". A line led westward from Xian, parted and went around the Taklamakan Desert, came together and stretched out far across the Eurasian continent to the Mediterranean, and from there to Italy and Rome. "Marco Polo," I said to myself, while studying small cameo pictures of landscapes and ancient ruins scattered at various points on the map. This all kindled my interest, indeed it took seconds for me to conclude in a hushed tone, "The Silk Road is just what I've been looking for,” and without any reflection I resolved to travel the old trade route.“
Pre-order a copy of the First Edition, Second Printing, numbered and signed by the author, Stephen Draaijer.
Own the First edition, second printing
NZ$75 + postage and packing
Meet the author
"I will take my writing as far as it will go."
"I will take my photography as far as it will go."
In 2002, Stephen Draaijer penned these two purposeful sentences on a scrap of paper, tucking them into his pocket before embarking on a sojourn to teach English in South Korea. These seemingly simple resolutions ended up becoming the guiding force for three personally transformative trips along the legendary Silk Road - the ancient trade route connecting, Xian, China with Rome, Italy.
What began as an epic adventure culminated in 2010 when Stephen returned to Nelson, New Zealand, ready to weave together his experiences. He initially anticipated a twelve month undertaking but that evolved into over two years of dedicated black and white darkroom photography and intensive writing. The result was the creation of his book, 30 Silverglyphics - A Journey Along the Silk Road
Now, thirteen years later, Stephen had decided to publish this remarkable work, inviting you to share an experience that continues to bring a smile to his face.
