Arrows and Ashes

I called this Arrows and Ashes to highlight the individual and tribal identification this Ethiopian Tsemai woman wears on her skin.  The tattoos are created by using arrows, pointed sticks, knives, quills like the porcupine quills are used in the painting - anything sharp enough to pierce the skin.  The wounds are then filled with ash to ensure they retain their shape.  This is essential as the marks made are specific to the person and their tribal affiliation.  As I was taking the photo I was struck by the sadness in her eyes, a reflection perhaps of the difficulties faced by the women of these tribes where female and infant mortality is so high.  I find myself constantly wondering how much longer these cultures will survive and what we can do to help them retain their identity yet improve their living conditions.