Body painting is a colorful art used by various African cultures to celebrate, protect, and mourn. Specific colors are used to indicate certain periods in a person's life, such as puberty, courting, and marriage, among other things.
It dates back to pre-colonial African history in sub-Saharan Africa, and head wraps were considered symbols of status, marriage, and family lineage. During the Transatlantic Slave Trade, they were one of the few cultural pieces enslaved Africans were able to bring to the Americas
In Africa, Red ochre is used for protection from the sun and as a barrier from insects such as mosquitos. It has also been scientifically proven to inhibit the effects of UV radiation. There are many other uses.
Traditionally, the color black is associated with funeral clothing. However, in many African cultures, as well as Southern States, the color white is a popular choice for funeral-goers.
In East Africa, And many other parts of the world, women may carry loads of up to 70% of their own body weight balanced on top of their heads. To carry food supply, water and more..