Songs of the Wales

For the Ekonda pygmies, the most important event in the life of a woman is the birth of her first child. The mother is called Wale (primiparous nursing mother). For several years after giving birth, she lives in semi-seclusion, separated from her husband, cared for by other female tribe members and covered daily in red powder made of Ngola wood. When the time comes to re-enter society, she puts on a show for the community, translating lessons learned during seclusion into songs and dances. These celebrations captured the attention of French photographer Patrick Willocq.