Photographer Vicente Pamparo recently traveled to Ethiopia's Omo Valley to document the beautiful tribal decor of the Karo People.
As a cornerstone to the tribe's ceremonial festivities, the Karo people use white chalk and red ochre to create mesmerizing patterns on the surface of their skin and hair.
These patterns have been used for centuries as a visual means of attracting spouses and intimidating tribal enemies.
The markings serve as an important symbol of identity and community, while preserving the tribe's heritage in an age of accelerated development.
In a discussion with BuzzFeed, Vicente says, "I was given permission to stay in the village and I ended up following them for about a week. Needless to say it has been one of the most memorable times of my life."
Vicente Pamparo is a photographer based in the United States. To view more of his work, be sure to check out his website at http://www.vicentepamparo.com/.
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