amateur category
An Ethiopian Tradition (Series)
DESCRIPTION
This captivating series unveils the vibrant preparations for the Bull Jumping Ceremony in Ethiopia. While the ritual itself marks the passage to adulthood, these photographs focus on the anticipatory moments. Young initiates, adorned in intricate ritual makeup, embody the cultural significance of this ceremony. As part of the celebration, the hero figures of the village ceremoniously whip the women from the initiates' families, signifying strength and resilience. Each image encapsulates the rich tapestry of Ethiopian culture, illustrating the symbolic rituals that surround the transition to adulthood. The series offers a poignant glimpse into the cultural nuances, rites, and vibrant traditions that shape the identity of the community, making the Bull Jumping Ceremony a profound and visually striking cultural spectacle in Ethiopia. Post-ceremony, the warriors gather to share the typical Ethiopian beer, enhancing the communal bond and concluding the celebration with camaraderie.
AUTHOR
Self-taught photographer and passionate traveler, Thibault Gerbaldi roams the world to capture visual stories infused with emotion and authenticity.
His work has been recognized in prestigious international competitions, earning first place at the International Travel Photo Awards, second place at the PX3 (Prix de la Photographie de Paris) and the Monovision Awards, and third place at the Fine Art Photography Awards. In 2024, he received the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious travel photography competition.
His images have been published in Leica Fotografie International, All About Photo, LENS Magazine, and various specialized media. Much like Thibault himself, his work travels the world—from Miami to Paris, Venice, Los Angeles, and Rome. In 2024, his growing recognition earned him a spot among AAP’s Emerging Talents to Watch.
Beyond photography, Thibault is committed to supporting humanitarian causes through his work. A board member of The Forgotten International since 2019, he donates a portion of his book and print sales to fund solidarity projects supporting marginalized communities.
His work has been recognized in prestigious international competitions, earning first place at the International Travel Photo Awards, second place at the PX3 (Prix de la Photographie de Paris) and the Monovision Awards, and third place at the Fine Art Photography Awards. In 2024, he received the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious travel photography competition.
His images have been published in Leica Fotografie International, All About Photo, LENS Magazine, and various specialized media. Much like Thibault himself, his work travels the world—from Miami to Paris, Venice, Los Angeles, and Rome. In 2024, his growing recognition earned him a spot among AAP’s Emerging Talents to Watch.
Beyond photography, Thibault is committed to supporting humanitarian causes through his work. A board member of The Forgotten International since 2019, he donates a portion of his book and print sales to fund solidarity projects supporting marginalized communities.
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