PS
Philipp Schmieja
for the s(n)ake of spirit
Guéré girls protect the village by the animal spirits of snakes. The snake girls begin their initiation at the age of 3. They are neither allowed to speak, nor to smile. During the rituals they mimic snake movements. When they turn 10 years old, their relationship with this brotherhood ends.
Awards
Black & White Photo Contest
2026Nominee
People
Non Professional
for the s(n)ake of spirit
Guéré girls protect the village by the animal spirits of snakes. The snake girls begin their initiation at the age of 3. They are neither allowed to speak, nor to smile. During the rituals they mimic snake movements. When they turn 10 years old, their relationship with this brotherhood ends.
About Artist
Philipp Schmieja
Self-taught photographer and passionate traveler. I discovered my passion for photography during traveling African countries. I had developed a fascination for tribes. This has been underpinned by my passion for photography. Tribal people are those who have unique customs. They often have a symbiotic bond with the environments in which they live. I am using photography as a medium to capture candid moments as well as community spirit and portraits. And in that moment, through my lens, I am seeking to portray the soul of the places by blending intimate people photography with striking imagery of cultural heritage.
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