Old SchoolHouse Gallery - 'Tribal' Pia Jessen - Head On Photo Festival

Old SchoolHouse Gallery - 'Tribal' Pia Jessen

Redlands Photographer Pia Jessen EFIAP/p APSEM Hon FAPS presents her solo exhibition 'Tribal' at Old Schoolhouse Gallery Cleveland.

The exhibition, selected as part of Sydney's Head On Photo Festival Open Program, offers audiences an opportunity to experience a body of work that has gained national recognition.

Head On Photo Festival is a world-leading annual photography festival based in Sydney, Australia, presented by the not-for-profit Head On Foundation. A diverse program of exhibitions, talks and workshops showcases Australian and International artists and thought-leaders across all genres.

A passionate travel and portrait photographer, Pia's love of adventure has taken her to remote and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Deeply motivated by human connection and cultural storytelling, her work is driven by respect and authenticity.

'Tribal' reflects her long-standing fascination with the Suri people of southwestern Ethiopia, whose traditions and identities have been preserved for thousands of years.

"With Tribal, I wanted to honour the strength and beauty of cultural traditions that continue to shape identity today. These images are about respect, resilience, and the stories that live within communities" said Pia Jessen.

While lip plates are often misunderstood by outsiders, within the Suri and Mursi tribes they are a symbol of beauty, status, and commitment to culture. Traditionally worn during weddings, dances, and ceremonial gatherings, they remain a powerful marker of identity.