The Omo People of Ethiopia

German photographer Hans Sylvester spent six years in Ethiopia photographing the  amazing body decor of Surma and Mursi peoples of the Omo Valley.  These semi-nomadic tribes people re-paint and re-decorate their bodies up to three times a day, the way we might change outfits. Their body decor often incorporates intricate and beautiful headpieces or “hats” constructed of natural materials.

 Sylvester’s  stunning images capture the creative essence of fashion and speak to an eternal human desire to “dress up” and “look good.” Our tribal and societal norms may be different, but our desires are the same. Sylvester truly captures our shared humanity in his photographs. 

I identify with these people, don’t you?  And their hats especially, really speak to me.