Joana Choumali's latest series, 'The Last Generation,' documents the last faces marked by a timeworn custom.
Scarification is the practice of making superficial cuts on the skin, which eventually form into permanent scars. People often performed "Hââbré," a means of using the scars to identify themselves among different tribes and villages. It was an ancient ritual, that, with the Westernization of African cities, has since gone out of style; certain areas have even gone as far as banning the practice.
Choumali sought out those living with scarification, those bearing a physical reminder of the past in modern times, and photographed them with benevolence and understanding. The scarring is a distinctive cultural marker, and one that is wholly rejected from mainstream society, leaving many with regret.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Scarification Ritual Revival
- The revival of scarification rituals presents an opportunity for cultural preservation and exploration in African communities.
- Photography as Cultural Documentation
- The use of photography to document ancient traditions like scarification provides a platform for storytelling and preservation.
- Reimagining Identity Markers
- The rejection of scarification as a cultural marker opens up opportunities for reimagining identity markers and finding new ways to express cultural heritage.
Where This Applies
- Art and Photography
- The art and photography industry can explore the representation and documentation of ancient traditions like scarification.
- Cultural Preservation and Heritage Tourism
- Cultural preservation organizations and heritage tourism industry can work together to celebrate and promote the revival of scarification rituals.
- Fashion and Body Modification
- The fashion and body modification industry can incorporate scarification-inspired designs and products, offering new forms of self-expression.
