The Suri has been living in the Omo River Valley of Southern Ethiopia for centuries. They have kept their ancestral traditions sound. The ancient tribes of this region continue to use their bodies as canvases. The Suri is known for elaborate body and facial decoration, an expression of who they are, how they possess themselves. Various colors made from mud and ochre are applied to create patterns and designs not only for ritual but also for beautification.
This image of this young person standing amongst the adult women is quintessentially significant of ‘community’ and how strong it is in tribal culture. It is as though the women are protecting the generational indigenous wisdom, the wisdom, in this case, imbued in the child.
