You and I live in a world of cell phones and social media.  This is what defines our culture.  But what if this culture is nearly non-existent in parts of the world where people speak in person, ancestors are honored, warring tribes and animosity towards neighbors is in the recent past and life is as always contingent on a bountiful harvest?  In this exhibit photographer George Levert honors three extraordinary cultures where traditions are respected yet changed through festivals where once warring tribes meet.  Where there was once hatred and violence, peaceful coalitions take place.

Susan Todd-Raque

Curator

Nagaland

Only open to visitors since 2011, Nagaland continues to have only one foot in the present while still honoring the past.  During the six day Aoling Festival in the early spring, the elderly men of the tribe gather to tell tales of headhunting days from over 30 years ago.  Their facial tattoos are symbolic of their heroic deeds.

While oftentimes carrying weapons and toting enemy skulls dug up specifically for the Konyak Festival, men and women do the traditional dances.

The people still believe that human heads are essential for a bountiful harvest and for the well being of the tribe, despite the fact that 85% of the population is now Baptist.

Ladakh

The disputed land of Ladakh lies between China, India and Pakistan in the Himalayan Mountains yet the Ladakh people refer to the place as the “home of peaceful life.” 

It is the refuge of the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism. Prayer flags fly all over the country, signifying its close identification with Tibetan religious culture.

Highly respected, women wear woven elaborate, hand created costumes and leather headdresses during the Buddhist monastic festivals in the district of Leh.

Turkana

The Tobong’u Lore Festival in Turkana is a 3 day gathering of 14 tribes from all over Kenya.  Each tribe has its own designated hut for preparing to dance and celebrate the “welcome back home” festival’s theme of peace and cooperation.

There is meticulous attention to the colorful beadwork and placement of facial makeup.  Each color, line, shape, design, and placement has meaning.

The people live as they have for centuries. 

An additional theme for this festival is the protection of the beloved wildlife around them.  The people exist on the land with the wildlife as a whole entity, not a separate piece of life.