My Travel Associateship Panel, The Royal Photographic Society. Bath.
The Panel as displayed
STATEMENT OF INTENT
The Rabari are one of many semi-nomadic tribes inhabiting the northwestern desert regions of India. The women are presently under going change, not only in their traditional way of living but radically in their dress.
For centuries the women have adorned themselves with colourful textiles and lavish ethnic jewelry all of which serves as an unwritten dress code. This reveals the status of the women within their community, from the extravagantly decorated younger women to the modest attire of the widow. Tattoos covering, face, neck and limbs are believed to hold magical powers.
Due to modern day influences there are now significant changes within this society where many daughters are no longer following this traditional style of attire.
These images aim to celebrate the beauty of the attire and the tradition of the Rabari woman as she can still be seen today.
Lesley Treloar ARPS 27th April 2011
