Scarified Stories

• Photographer
  Thibault Gerbaldi
• Technical Info
  1/400s, Iso 200, 50mm, F/2, Cropped Sensor
• Photo Date
  25dec19

During my stay in a Mursi village, I gained insights into the profound significance of scarification within their culture. It serves as a means to distinguish between various ethnic groups and clans within the Mursi tribe. Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in rites of passage, marking significant life transitions such as puberty, marriage, or childbirth. As individuals undergo these milestones, scarification becomes a symbolic expression of personal growth and evolving societal roles. Within Mursi culture, scarification is viewed as a form of embellishment and enhancement of beauty.

Thibault Gerbaldi is a self-taught Leica photographer and passionate traveler, known for authentic stories from the world’s most remote regions. His work spans landscapes from Greenland to India, blending documentary, travel, and portrait. He has self-published seven books and earned recognition: 1st at Siena Awards 2025, International Photo Awards 2025, and TPOTY Rising Talent (2024). Exhibited globally and featured in LFI and LENS Magazine. As a board member of The Forgotten International, he supports humanitarian projects.