The Samburu
The Samburu are a fiercely pastoralist group of people who live in the northern territory of Kenya. This unique group of people existed outside of major western influence until only the past few decades (all the while maintaining a distinct culture of nomadic independence).
From an age of about 13 to 16 until their late twenties, the Samburu initiate into their social ranks a generation of Warriors. These Warriors are brought to age within the Samburu’s culture to protect their cattle, as well as the peoples themselves. A stoic sentry against the wilds, a Samburu Warrior watches carefully over their society as they move livestock amongst the pastures and watering areas of their beautiful yet desolate lands. To a warrior in the Samburu tribe, the traditions of fine dress, bold presence and pride of appearance all add up to what is of the greatest periods of a young man’s life.
Owerko’s portraits celebrate the intrinsic historical integrity of both the Samburu culture and way of life. It captures their personality, their fierce nomadic ways and devotion to both family and the land they call home. As a society on the bleeding edge of great change, this imagery is not only photographic art, but equally both anthropology and living history blended together in fine strokes.
/Fine Art Pigment Print on Archival Smooth Pearl Paper
/Sizes and Editions Upon Request