TRIBAL Exhibition
13 - 30 November, 2025
Official Opening: Sunday 16 November, 10.00am.
The Old Schoolhouse Gallery
124-126 Shore Street North, Cleveland, QLD 4163
The exhibition has been selected for the Head On Photo Festival Open Program,
a showcase of independent, artist-run photographic work.
Photographer Pia Jessen EFIAP/p APSEM Hon FAPS
The exhibition Tribal, officially selected as part of Sydney’s Head On Photo Festival Open Program, offers audiences an opportunity to experience a body of work that has gained national recognition.
Head On Photo Festival is a world-leading annual photography festival based in Sydney, Australia, presented by the not-for-profit Head On Foundation.
A passionate travel and portrait photographer, Pia Jessen’s love of adventure has taken her to remote and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Deeply motivated by human connection and cultural storytelling, her work is driven by respect and authenticity. Tribal reflects Pia’s long-standing fascination with the tribal people of south and southwestern Ethiopia, whose traditions and identities have been preserved for thousands of years. The exhibition documents the rich cultural practices of these communities, including body painting with white ash, chalk, and red ochre clay; adornments made from beads, feathers, shells, and other prized objects; and elaborate headpieces crafted with creativity and symbolism.
Scarification, piercings, and distinctive lip plates, voluntarily worn with pride by women, are presented not as curiosities but as expressions of beauty, strength, and cultural identity. “With Tribal, I wanted to honour the strength and beauty of cultural traditions that continue to shape identity today. These images are about respect, resilience, and the stories that live within communities,” said Pia Jessen.
While lip plates are often misunderstood by outsiders, within the Suri and Mursi tribes they are a symbol of beauty, social status, and commitment to culture. Traditionally worn during weddings, dances, and ceremonial gatherings, they remain a powerful marker of identity.
Being selected for the 2025 Head On Festival Open Program places ‘Tribal’ among a curated group of exhibitions recognised for their artistic and cultural significance.
About Pia Jessen
Pia Jessen EFIAP/p APSEM Hon FAPS is a Queensland-based photographer specialising in travel and portraiture. Her work explores themes of culture, identity, and human connection, with a focus on authentic storytelling. Pia’s images have been recognised both nationally and internationally. ‘Tribal’ reflects her deep respect for the people of Ethiopia and her commitment to documenting human traditions with sensitivity and artistry.
2025 Head On Photo Festival Open Program
The Open Program highlights a diverse range of independent, artist-run exhibitions.
Each year, the festival received many high-quality proposals from passionate artists and collectives. While the Featured exhibition program has limited spots, the Open Program honours the talent and dedication of photographers energising our arts community.
These exhibitions are a vital part of the festival, reflecting the commitment, artistic visions and collaborative spirit of contemporary photography.
The year, a record number of Open Program exhibitors are presenting exhibitions across the country, extending photography throughout Australia.
Head on is proud to offer a platform for artists to share their work.