Carol Beckwith & Angela Fisher: Painted Bodies of Africa
Synopsis
Body painting in Africa dates back to early cave paintings and rock engravings from the Stone Age, with evidence of its use found 100,000 years ago.
Synopsis
In 1985, photographers Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher traveled to the remote Sorma community in Southwest Ethiopia. They documented the vibrant body painting practices during the courtship season. The Sorma people used natural pigments to create intricate designs on their skin, transforming their bodies into living art. Beckwith and Fisher's work captures over 150 cultures across Africa, resulting in an archive of half a million images and hours of video. Their goal is to preserve this cultural heritage for future generations.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See body painting traditions from the Sorma people.
- Meet Angela Fisher and Carol Beckwith in their cultural pursuits.
- Find out how body decoration reflects life in Africa.
Did You Know
- Body painting in Africa dates back 100,000 years, as shown in Blombos caves.
- Beckwith and Fisher first met in Africa in 1978.
- They organized a mule train of 15 animals for a five-week stay with the Sorma people.
- The archive created by Beckwith and Fisher includes over 150 different cultures.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Angela and Carol first meet in Africa?
Angela and Carol first met in Africa in 1978.
How long did Angela and Carol stay with the Sorma people in Ethiopia?
They stayed with the Sorma people for five weeks.
What is the purpose of the archive created by Angela and Carol?
The archive covers over 150 different cultures and consists of a half a million images and hundreds of hours of video films.
What are people saying?
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