We are proud to share through our photographs our newfound love for their culture and their willingness to share with the world who they are. We keep in touch with some of the people who live in the village nearby and continue to have a wonderful relationship with them.  

We feel very strongly that these photos capture their true beauty and we wanted to present these photos so that others can be made aware of their existence and have a glimpse into who they are. 

There is no intention to offend anyone by displaying these photos, only to build connections between us, share their beautiful spirit and humanity. There is no profit to be had from these photographs, and everything was done with their permission and blessing.

     Thanks,

Kayla Gordon and Pam Sigurdson

Kayla Gordon and Pam Sigurdson

#ourtinyatlas. #KaylaandPamsbigadventure. #kaylagphoto. #pamsiggi

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

Photography for me is about people and their stories. The photographic experience with the Himba Tribe was a long time coming for me as an artist and photographer. I have previously been to 3 other countries in Africa and this trip was specifically to travel to Namibia to photograph the rich and beautiful culture and strength of the Himba women. 

These women are part of a culture that has proven to be resilient to foreign influences, but this is changing.  We wanted to capture the women in their daily lives, taking care of their children and other activities in their traditional way of life. There are 5000 Himba people living in Namibia.  

We were specially invited into 3 different Himba communities over a week-long period. The women and children welcomed us with open arms and were eager to get to know us. The chief welcomed us and also wanted his picture taken. Most of the men were off herding cattle or getting water but we did meet a few of them as well.  

Every one of the women had a story to tell and they loved having their pictures taken. As offerings, we brought them food, and toys and candy for the kids, as had been suggested by our guide and translator. We were all excited to learn of our common love for music and dance once they discovered that I work in the theatre. This was a wonderful shared experience, like nothing I have experienced before. 

The Himba are an ancient tribe in Namibia, closely related to the Herero. They are a semi-nomadic, pastoral people who breed cattle and goats. Pam and Kayla visited 3 tribes and spent their days with the help of a translator getting to know them.

Kayla Gordon and Pam Sigurdson

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